I didn’t expect to cry so hard at Uncle Mateo’s funeral, a combat vet who served with his loyal K9, Rex. They were inseparable, even in civilian life. When Mateo passed, Rex’s grief was palpable. At the service, Rex jumped onto the casket, whimpering and pawing as if trying to reach Mateo, silencing the crowd. I stopped the funeral director from pulling him away, giving Rex a moment to mourn. Later, I took Rex home, knowing he needed someone. He struggled,
depressed without Mateo, until I brought him to Mateo’s ranch. There, Rex ran the old obstacle course, tail wagging, finding peace. Caring for Rex gave me purpose, honoring Mateo’s legacy of love and loyalty. Months later, a K9 training center was named after Mateo, and Rex and I attended the dedication. Through loss, Rex and I healed each other, guided by Mateo’s spirit to move forward with hope.
