Gypsy Saved My Life.

[Pinya]

I just recently lost my best friend, Gypsy, on January 6th, 2013 at 1 am. But this is about how she saved me.

I was a bad teenager with poorly chosen friends. I dropped out of high school and a few years later, as I was cleaning up my act, my mother gave me Gypsy. Gypsy, a typical Basenji puppy, could care less about me in the beginning. She had a giant world to explore. I loved her to pieces for it, her independence, brave approach and how everything was exciting to her. Little did I know that this pup and I were 2 of the same but in different bodies. I was 18 and allowed to go out, my mom trusted me some to not make dumb decisions, but I had Gypsy at home. As time went by I came home earlier and earlier on the weekends because I didn't want to be away from Gypsy. I began to feel an immense sense of responsibility. A responsibility that I wanted and was proud of. It got to the point that I would take her with me where ever I went as long as it was dog friendly.

I don't know if it was her personality that rubbed off on me or if I rubbed off on her or if we were simply cut from the same cloth. We all meet dogs and see them as four legged creatures but Gypsy to me was more than that because she was capable of teaching me things. I learned how to truly love unconditionally. She taught me to be responsible and how to quit stressing the little things with her nonchalant personality. She also taught me to trust my gut feelings. Eventually we became a package deal and my friends could see the similarities between us. It's surreal to see how far I come from the dysfunctional teenager to who I am now. I like who I am now and I don't know if I would be here if I hadn't made so many decisions on what was best for me AND Gypsy. (I am now in graduate school for my Masters in Early Childhood Education, sharp as a tack, and fully independent with no fear of the world.)

I have dozens of incredible stories of Gypsy reading a persons disposition or how she altered my life by simply being there. My heart aches so much and I feel very lost without her. She was my pillar, she was my inspiration to be independent, she was the most amazing friend and these last 12 days have felt like an eternity.

I don't believe in coincidence and I don't believe the universe makes mistakes. Gypsy entered my life and made me who I am today and I am forever grateful. I miss her but I know that she's waiting for me. I can't think of a better greeting on the other side than Gypsy and her yodel.

[TMartin]

I am very sorry for your loss. We never have enough time with them and it's difficult when they leave us behind. It sounds like you and Gypsy had an amazing bond. It's amazing how animals can pull us through at different times in our life.

[agilebasenji]

Ah, you were very lucky to have Gypsy. She was very lucky to have you. I have been very blessed in my life to have close, special relationships with several basenjis and know just what you feel for Gypsy. Some day she will send another pup for you to love, when you're ready. Until then, i know the pain and grief is so raw. and some people just don't understand. You're more than welcome to come here and share; we understand.

[QuizBasenji]

You were lucky to have each other. Sorry for your loss.

[DebraDownSouth]

Indeed, you were both lucky to have each other. I am sorry for your loss, but so glad you obviously gave Gypsy a loving partner her entire life.

[stash]

Sorry to hear of your loss

[Pinya]

Thank you everyone for your kind words and support.

[ownedbyspencer]

That's a lovely story. I'm so sorry to hear about Gypsy, but glad you got to experience such a special bond. Dogs are amazing creatures. It's life-altering when they come… and life-altering when they go. In between, you grow and change and become more of this and less of that. Sending healing thoughts your way...

[tanza]

What a lovely tribute! So sorry for your loss…...

[Patty M]

Thank you for sharing your love, Pinya… you have indeed been blessed by Gypsy. She will always resonate in your heart, and every January 6th will be poignant for you. Hugs and roos, and please feel free to share.

[MacPack]

I am so sorry. Gypsy was indeed a very special girl who came to you when you needed her, and your tribute to her was beautiful. Most of us have lost a special "Heart dog" and the grief can be overwhelming for awhile. I look up into the night sky and imagine mine are shining stars, twinkling and playing in the cosmos. Big hugs to you.