I don't know what to say. Thank you. This is an extraordinary piece in so many ways. As what almost seems like an aside, let me say that you write beautifully. Your style is honest, soothing, warm. It invited me into your most precious moments. That's a real gift. This is one of the best dog pieces I've ever read and I will restack it today.
Bogie certainly was an extraordinary dog. Both of you were so lucky. I'm so glad you had him at your most difficult moment.
My Bodhi is 16 now and I worry about him. He's still spry and playful. We go to McDonald's for his favorite treat, soft serve ice cream, which he won't eat unless I hold it for him. He spoiled in every way and deserves to be, as did Bogie. My cat is 12. Those ages scare me.
I wrote a book about three dogs. The text you read about Phoebe was the first. I would be happy to send you a physical copy by mail or a PDF. The third dog, Steady, seems to have a relationship with water very much like your Bogie.
Finally, I wrote a book about depression. It includes an actual suicide in July 2003. It was some bad shit. I've been thinking about sharing some of the text here -- the anatomy of an attempt -- but wonder whether it's too honest and raw for people. I don't mind being judged as a person -- been there, done that. But I don't wish to offend. I would also be happy to send you a copy of that book in the form of your preference.
Neither book is outstanding, but I did my best to convey some difficult times and also a lot of joy.
Likewise Ben. Thanks for giving it a read and for your kind words. Dogs provide such amazing experiences in our human lives. They’re amazing teachers. I’d love to read your book. Rambeaudee@gmail.com if you I don’t mind sharing PDF.
Five lucky pups, that's for sure. And lots of hamburger meat. Bodhi gets chicken, peas, corn, rice, and some pumpkin puree (served on the side). He wants to play after each meal, and he taught this workaholic that the answer to his invitation is always yes. It has been hot lately, but we will soon resume our daily trips to the park, where he and I have made some great friends. It's a slice of heaven.
I will definitely send you the PDFs and I appreciate your interest.
Bawling....and snuggling with my 7 year old pups a little tighter tonight. 💔
Beautiful words and memory Ben. My Bogie literally saved my life. I write about it here if you’re interested.
https://deerambeau.substack.com/p/can-a-dog-save-a-life
Dee,
I don't know what to say. Thank you. This is an extraordinary piece in so many ways. As what almost seems like an aside, let me say that you write beautifully. Your style is honest, soothing, warm. It invited me into your most precious moments. That's a real gift. This is one of the best dog pieces I've ever read and I will restack it today.
Bogie certainly was an extraordinary dog. Both of you were so lucky. I'm so glad you had him at your most difficult moment.
My Bodhi is 16 now and I worry about him. He's still spry and playful. We go to McDonald's for his favorite treat, soft serve ice cream, which he won't eat unless I hold it for him. He spoiled in every way and deserves to be, as did Bogie. My cat is 12. Those ages scare me.
I wrote a book about three dogs. The text you read about Phoebe was the first. I would be happy to send you a physical copy by mail or a PDF. The third dog, Steady, seems to have a relationship with water very much like your Bogie.
Finally, I wrote a book about depression. It includes an actual suicide in July 2003. It was some bad shit. I've been thinking about sharing some of the text here -- the anatomy of an attempt -- but wonder whether it's too honest and raw for people. I don't mind being judged as a person -- been there, done that. But I don't wish to offend. I would also be happy to send you a copy of that book in the form of your preference.
Neither book is outstanding, but I did my best to convey some difficult times and also a lot of joy.
It's so nice to meet you.
Ben
Likewise Ben. Thanks for giving it a read and for your kind words. Dogs provide such amazing experiences in our human lives. They’re amazing teachers. I’d love to read your book. Rambeaudee@gmail.com if you I don’t mind sharing PDF.
My current pack of rescues (my rescue) is 5.
Five lucky pups, that's for sure. And lots of hamburger meat. Bodhi gets chicken, peas, corn, rice, and some pumpkin puree (served on the side). He wants to play after each meal, and he taught this workaholic that the answer to his invitation is always yes. It has been hot lately, but we will soon resume our daily trips to the park, where he and I have made some great friends. It's a slice of heaven.
I will definitely send you the PDFs and I appreciate your interest.
You can always reach me at benkerschberg@gmail.com or ben.kerschberg@aya.yale.edu. I do all my Substack stuff on the latter.