Crossing the Rainbow Bridge

If you’ve said goodbye to a dearly loved pet, you know there’s a special kind of sadness that accompanies this sort of loss. The grief you may experience after losing a pet is not to be diminished or underestimated. It is real, it is valid and there’s nothing else quite like it. That deeply felt grief is a product of the daily joy and true connection you shared with an unforgettable friend. 

If we told you there’s a prose poem that may help just a bit, would you believe us? It’s called The Rainbow Bridge. We have no idea where it comes from. It’s old school, and it’s just one of those “anonymous” poems that is circulated among those who know that someone they care for has lost a pet close to their heart. It’s about crossing over to wholeness and gratitude and a place of community. We share The Rainbow Bridge here with the hope that it offers a little comfort and lets you hug the sweet memory of your treasured pet even nearer to your heart.

“Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing: They miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind. 

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster. 

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart. 

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together…” 

-Author unknown

We’re not crying, you’re crying! And you know what? It’s okay to feel all the feels when you imagine your pet playing happily, but still waiting for you…

Click here to read our Pet Farewelling piece.