Hecate, 1993-2009
I like to keep it light here on Soap Leaves. Here in my home we’ve had some very sad news, though, and I want to take up just a little bandwidth to offer a tribute to our kitty, Hecate, who passed away today, April 13, 2009.
I came into Hecate’s life fairly late, in 2003, when I met my partner J. Hecate and Sara were his cats, and I had my dear Sammy, the love of my life. While I took an instant liking to Sara (who is completely adorable), Hec was another story. A very bright animal, Hecate was also a problem child. J had acquired her from the local animal shelter at one year old, already showing signs of having a checkered past. She had a damaged eye that wasn’t exactly photogenic, was a bit scruffy, and also had many, many behavioral problems.
Those of you who are parents and/or animal lovers will easily recognize the many lessons herein.
J had the patience of a saint in dealing with Hec’s many struggles… me, not so much. However, as time passed, thanks to this wise old soul in a wonky, furry body, I learned firsthand what it really means to choose to love another, to forgive, to put another first, to show compassion… to remember that they’re just shoes anyway, even if they were your favorites… and, ultimately, that this life is so fleeting and fragile and it simply must be cherished above all else.
Hecate certainly lived up to her name. Her very namesake was the Greek goddess who, unbeknownst to J or myself at the time, represents crossroads: Change… releasing things which hinder us… exploring things which scare us… finding ourselves along the way.
Hecate had been ill for two arduous years, suffering with kidney failure, and we learned to overcome our own squeamishness as we gave her saline solution through a big, giant, scary needle in the scruff of her neck regularly. In the last month, though, it became clear that she was declining rapidly, and in the past few days, it was obvious that her suffering was beyond what any creature should endure.
So, Hecate, thank you for your time with us… for the many lessons you taught us… the fun… the not so fun… thank you for choosing us. We hope you’re free and happy, and we hope that we gave you at least a fraction of the love and care you deserved. Safe travels, sweetheart.
Awww Michele, I am so sorry for your loss of Hecate. You certainly have a way with words and I am sure the love you grew to have for Hecate was felt deeply. The following poem was sent to us by an ER Vet when one of our beloved kitties passed. It brought us peace and I hope it does the same for you! ~ Lisa
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food and water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable. All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing: they miss someone very special to them; who had to be left behind. They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. The bright eyes are intent; the eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to break away from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster. YOU have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Lisa, thank you so much. Such a lovely poem, and it brings such comfort. I know your heart is HUGE when it comes to furry love, so your sympathy means the world to me… I know where it’s coming from! Take good care, dear, and give your kitties some extra love for me
So sorry to hear of the loss of your dear Hecate. Your posting really showed the love you had for her. Pet’s love us unconditionally and trust you for their entire well being and you did that for her. She will live on in your heart. Brightest Blessings, Sherry
Sherry, thank you for your kind words. Sometimes we have to learn to love another, and then the love is all the deeper. These little creatures are so special, and I can tell you understand that too. Be well!
Dear Michele, I had to smile at your words about your Kitty and then I cried! I have 2 cats and my older cat, Lizzie is struggling, too. I had to give her antibiotics and cortisone injections last week. She ha lots of crystals in her urine and gets really uncomfortable at times. I feel so bad for her. And, she won’t drink either! : (
If you have any suggestions on how you feed your cats and what kind of food you give them, I’d really appreciate the info.
I’ll be thinking about your entire household…in this sad case, everyone is affected!
Love to you, my Friend! Jo
Hey Jo! Thank you so much for your kind words. I’m so sorry to hear your dear Lizzie is having trouble. As far as feeding, that was definitely a struggle for Hec too. Sometimes we just had to hand-feed her, and to be honest, toward the end we gave her whatever she wanted. If that was processed cheese, well, at least she had something in her poor tummy. Does Lizzie have any favorite indulgences? Something really moist so that she gets a little liquid too? Keep me posted on her, ok? {{hugs}}
Sweetie,
. may your bleesed loved one be jumping tall grass in he meadows of Summerland. I’ve added Hecate to our Samhain rollcall list that will be read and have the pic you’ve posted to sit on the Altar.
I’m so sorry to hear about your Hecate
Hugz to you and yours.
Imari, Caurel, Anthony, Grae, Seth, bear, three toes, twisty, nubby, ginger, galileo, and crystal
Imari, thank you so much for your kind words. We miss her but we are truly happy that she’s free and out there having a great time! Your energy and prayers mean the world to us, and so thoughtful of you to put her picture on your altar. Hope you and your family are well!