Please remember, everyone, that the holidays are often a time when we are at our most vulnerable when it comes to our grief and sadness. But it is also a time to remember, fondly, all of the great moments we shared with our loved ones.

To everyone on here - no matter how far the distance between us, no matter how dark the night seems, no matter how much the loss seems to bear down on your soul - we are friends. True friendship does not require details about someone, years of acquaintance or proximity to them. It requires only that we think of our fellow beings with compassion and understanding. It requires only that we sympathize and try to lighten their pain. It requires a sharing of both our inner selves and our individual burdens.

Every tear you have each shed for your pets strengthens my faith in people.

Every sad post on the site - increases my belief that our race isn't without hope.

When we so strongly grieve the losses of the little ones around us we reaffirm our own humanity.

I am proud not only to have helped any of you (if I have) - but to have been given the very special gift of meeting all of you. My little furry ones are in a much better place now - but thanks to all of you I think that we're not in such a bad place ourselves.

AMEN

Thank you for your wonderful post and I love all the friends I have made here and you all have given me strength when I felt I couldn't take another step. I am so much better off for being a part of LS and all the advice and words of comfort has made me a better stronger woman.
Ann

What a wonderful post!

I'm so thankful for all the support and comfort I've found here.
Kathleen

What a super sweet post!

Hugs Sharon

What a wonderful view of humanity!

The people in this group are superb. I still feel so sad about my Rusty but coming here makes me feel not alone. I was only able to work part of the day today and all the while I was at work, I thought of coming home and visiting Lightning-Strike.

Lynn

DJ,
I always look forward to reading what you have to say...you are a very wise person and I've seen things from a different perspective, a better one, from words you've written....and I thank you for helping so many of us.

I have been devastated by the loss of my little guy, Dieter, but because of this most beautiful and sacred place, and the loving people who are a part of it, I'm better. One day I hope to be able to come back and give to those who are hurting and help them the way I've been helped.

God bless all of you.
Libby

DJ, what a wonderful post!
You have reminded me also that there are SO many people out there with loving and caring hearts.

I don't think I would have EVER gotten as far as I have without the support and kind words from everyone here at LS. DJ, you have certainly helped me too, and I thank you and everyone else here.

God Bless you all!
Cheri

You're right, DJ. This site proves there are still good people in the world who are willing to reach out to others...even when they're consumed with their own grief. I'm very thankful for all the people who have helped me.

I've told you before, but I'll tell you again: Your courage has inspired many of us. I hope someday I will be able to have your outlook on life. You don't get lost in the fog as most of us do....you have the gift to see things clearly and remain focused on what's really important. I've gone back and read many of your older posts and I always find comfort in your words. GOD BLESS YOU!

Take care,
__Jim

Yes, this site and my new friends have been my lifeline to go through one of the most unbarable times in my life. I am forever grateful. Pamela

Hi DJ:

SINCERELY HOPE, WITH ALL MY HEART, THAT YOU KNOW............JUST HOW MUCH YOU HAVE ALWAYS MEANT TO ME, AND, YOU WILL ALWAYS MEAN TO ME!!!!!!

You have a very, very special gift ...............

I, personally, am EXTREMELY, EXTREMELY, VERY PRIVILEGED TO CALL YOU "MY FRIEND!!!!!!

You, my friend................ARE ONE OF THE VERY, VERY WISE SOULS HERE AT LIGHTNING-STRIKE!!!!!
I know that LS would not be the same, if it were not for you!!!!

There is not enough room in my computer to let the world know just how much I think of you ........

I know that we all think that you are VERY, VERY SPECIAL................

God Bless YOU AND YOURS, DJ.........

May Peace, Love, Heath & Happiness ALWAYS BE IN YOUR LIFE!!!!!!!!!!!

LOVE ALWAYS, DENISE XO

What a beautiful, heartfelt message! My feelings echo yours......

God Bless you all!

Love & Hugs,

Karen