Love and Loyalty: A Tribute to Norman
Posted: Sunday, February 13, 2011
by Steve Radford
Norman and Bess go for a walk every morning. I see them as I leave the neighborhood at the beginning of my commute to work.
To describe what they do as walking is generous. I’ve actually only seen Bess walk a few times. Usually she is just lying in the grass in front of one of the neighborhood houses. Norman stands a few feet away, holding the leash, waiting patiently.
Puppies are so cute. It’s a shame they have to grow old. I guess it’s just life. Norman wasn’t born with snow white hair either. But there he is, holding the leash, white hair blowing in the chilly morning air. I wonder what he’s thinking. Is he remembering when Bess was a puppy?
Maybe he’s thinking about Bonnie, the love of his life for 43 years. Funny how she never stopped being beautiful to him. It was as if his perception of her never changed. He could see the color of her hair change from brown to gray. He noticed the wrinkles around her eyes and mouth. But somehow, he saw past those surface transformations with x-ray eyes that never grew tired of looking at her.
But now it’s just Norman and Bess. Sixteen years ago he had to grip the leash tightly as Bess the puppy would pull and strain until she almost choked herself. In the backyard, she would chase the tennis ball and bring it back until Norman was worn out from throwing the thing. What a simple pleasure that was.
So Bess can rest as long as she needs to. Norman will wait. When she’s ready to stagger past a few more houses, he’ll be at her side. Unaware of the inspiration he provides, he models a steadfastness and loyalty that seems in danger of extinction. Have a good day Norman. Thanks for the example.
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Top-level comments on this article: (3 total)Steadfastness..I like that choice of word, Steve. Very good story. Thanks for sharing it. Now, excuse me while I give my husband and my pup hugs.Thanks for commenting Lorrie. If my little story inspired hugs all around then I consider it a great success!
This article was really touching, it brought a tear to my eyes. Thank you for sharing it with us.Thanks for reading Linda. I appreciate the comment.
Very touching article. I hope things end well for both.
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