Norman,
For 13 years, you’ve been my constant. From career changes to medical hardships, motherhood aspirations and the things that happen to all of us in our daily lives — you’ve been there. Steady. Nurturing. Loving. Ready for a snuggle (and a treat, of course).
You told me it was your time, I know. And the emotions that I also knew would come in the aftermath — love, sadness, peace, emptiness — have hit me hard. (Again, as I knew they would.)
As I reflect and process, my heart hurts more than I thought possible, but I’m also filled with immense gratitude. As much as you needed me, I needed you, too. Dogs are funny like that. We think they’re the ones who rely on us, when in reality, it’s often the opposite. I saw that, but I truly understand it now.
It’s important for me to share the lessons you’ve taught me; to capture part of your legacy that I’ll carry with me for the rest of my lifetime. Whether you knew Norman or not (he was kind of a local celeb), he was a force of pure good, and my hope is these lessons have that same impact on you as they’ve had on me.
Norman’s Life Lesson #1:
Be Present
Dogs are the best. They’re happy with the little things; they don’t fuss when something doesn’t go their way; they don’t hold grudges. Norman, you were the essence of joy, and in a world where there are stressors, pressure, mile-long to-do lists and more, you’ve taught me the value of presence — the power of simply being in the moment. As both a doer and a dreamer, I can get lost in the future’s uncertainties or the past’s regrets. But in those moments, you’ve grounded me. Your laid back demeanor was — and still is — a reminder that joy isn’t found in what’s to come, but in the here and now.
Norman’s Life Lesson #2: Recognize How Short Life Is
It’s ironic that we often only realize how fast life moves when something drastic happens to shake things up. While we had 13 long years together, I also can’t believe our time in this existence is already over. Between 29 and 42, I too, have lived multiple lifetimes with you. You lived with an easy-going spirit that was unapologetically loving, friendly and energetic. In my life and work, I’m always pushing — pushing toward the next goal, the next opportunity, the next milestone. Your ability to enjoy the little things just for the sake of enjoyment is something I’ll never forget. You’ve taught me to pause and appreciate the good — and not-so-good — that make up this adventure of life. While it’s hard to think about, it’ll be over for all of us before we know it. I’m going to soak it up as best as I can while I’m here.
Norman’s Life Lesson #3: Leave People Better Than You Found Them
You had this incredible ability to leave people better than you found them. While it’s arguably easy to do when you’re cute and fluffy, whether it was a visitor at our door or a stranger we met on a walk, you approached everyone with unbiased kindness. You showed me the importance of investing in people, always. We’re all on our own journeys, with our own hopes and hardships. I’ve learned the world is a much warmer place when we all cut the B.S. and just be kind. When we can show up without judgment and lead from the heart, we’re all better for it.
Norman’s Life Lesson #4: Understand the Importance of Emotional Intelligence
In business and in life, emotional intelligence is everything. You had a way of sensing the unsaid. You showed me that leading with empathy, patience and understanding can change everything. Those lessons in compassion, and in really seeing people, are ones I hope to carry into every relationship I have to make me a better leader, partner and friend.
Norman’s Life Lesson #5: Embrace the Storms and the Paths They Clear
Norman, you were there through so many of my own storms — the moments when I felt lost, uncertain and overwhelmed. And yet, every hardship, every loss, every painful decision seemed to clear the way for something better.
In the end, I was so scared of what life would look like without you. Yet as that storm is starting to clear, I see that it wasn’t something meant to break me but to show me the right path forward, to clear the clutter and to make room for what truly matters. It’s okay — necessary, in fact — to bend, but there’s always a silver lining that can keep us from breaking entirely. Thank you for showing me that.
Thank You, Norman
Selfishly, I’m sad. Spiritually, I’m at peace. I find immense comfort in knowing your spirit is free and unburdened by the pain old age brings us in this world. I miss you more than I know how to describe, but I’m honored to carry your wisdom with me in everything I do.
Thank you for the love, the lessons and the light you brought into my life. Thank you for being my companion through thick and thin. Thank you for teaching me how to be a mother. Thank you for showing me what it means to live and love fully and to be loved. And while you may no longer be by my side, I know you’ll always be with me. Your spirit is woven into the fabric of my life, and for that, I am eternally grateful.
Rest easy, sweet boy.
PSA: In honor of Norman, go do something nice for yourself, and for someone else, today. The world needs more people who slow down and simply do good.
