[This is in response to the above post and it is not a rant]
A while ago, I visited the final resting place of my first cat's unmarked little grave. I wanted to tell her
"I remember you and I love you" and I was so very glad she had been in my life many years ago.
After she was put down, my Dad buried her in front of a little tree that was nothing more than a small sapling, planted in some barren soil at that time. Now, it was her "forever" home.
My cat had been my friend in my youth. She had been my faithful companion when I was in college.
I loved her with all of my heart. She was always there for me; always sweet, affectionate, and unconditionally loving no matter what was happening. She was my shining beacon. When she had to be put down, my heart was broken, shattered into a million pieces. To compound my grief, I wasn't "with her" when she was put down. When
she needed me the most, I was not
"there" for her.
So this time, when I went to spend time with her, I first looked for the little sapling tree that marked her gravesite. Now, the sapling tree was a tall tree with graceful boughs and velvety leaves. The ground was covered with soft green grass and was no longer barren. My cat's final resting place was peaceful, calm, sunny and beautiful. It reminded me of the deep love she shared with me, and I with her. It felt good. Before I left, I placed some pretty wildflowers on her grave, knowing that she is still "with" me, in my fondest memories. And, that made me feel very happy and very grateful for all of the whisker-kisses, purrs and love that she had given me, even though my heart still ached a little bit, after so many years. She was not forgotten - and it was okay.
I know you're hurting, and grieving, and missing your little cat. It will take time, maybe a lot of time. It's okay. In your own way, you will grieve, reminisce, heal, and live on. She was lucky to have you, and you were fortunate to have her. And, just so you know, we're here for you ... and for anyone else who has ever lost a pet because of illness, injury, old age, or whatever. I care ... we all care.