Friends by Diane Agamie

I found this in the community newspaper.

One of the great things in life is surprise. You never know when something or someone will surprise you. I made a friend about a decade ago with a girl named Lynn. We spent a lot of time together in the last ten years, mostly because we had such similar interests. She loved nature as do I. There is a great park in Toms River, Cattus Island Park. It runs a mile out to the bay. Lynn and I would make that walk at least two times a week, early in the morning to catch a glimpse of the local wildlife. I was a watcher of deer, fox, and snakes; Lynn was a fan of squirrels and chipmunks. She wouldn't hesitate to traverse deep in the woods if one of them caught her eye. If our walks took place on a hot summer day, we might go swimming in the bay when we reached it.

When you spend a lot of time with someone, you tend not to notice subtle changes in them. Lynn never commented that she thought I looked like I was getting older or slower in my walk, and I never noticed her aging either. She was always ready to go whenever I asked her. She wasn't much of a shopper, so we didn't spend too much time doing that together.

In the last six months I started to notice that she was slowing down. She started to lose interest in our walks and preferred to just visit inside and look out at the beautiful golf course. I could get her to take small walks with me, but nothing like we used to.

Over these last ten years, Lynn became one of the best friends I have ever had. She was always there if I needed someone to talk to, no matter what time of day or night. She would quietly listen to my concerns and offer her friendship and compassion. She would share a beautiful sunny day with me, but would also be there for me on a sad or dreary day.

Lynn took a turn for the worse in the last month. She had to be on some pretty strong medicine, but she was a trooper and took her meds faithfully. Sadly, the medicine wouldn't help her to get well, and I lost her just before my birthday. Although my heart is heavy, I know that she is in a better place, out of pain, and hopefully enjoying a beautiful sunny day.

There is an empty spot in our home now as we say goodbye to our dear friend and companion, Bailee Lynn Agamie, our beautiful chocolate Lab.