Even Though You Never Got Me a Card

I remember last year, just a few months after losing Jasper, Mother’s Day felt… off. I couldn’t quite put my finger on it at first. There was this lingering emptiness, a sense that something was missing. Then it hit me: for 15 years, I was Jasper’s mom. And now, without him, was I not a mom anymore?

That realization opened a floodgate of emotions— grief, confusion, and a profound sense of loss. It’s a unique kind of grief, one that many pet parents understand all too well. Our pets become integral parts of our lives, our routines, our identities. Losing them can feel like losing a part of ourselves.

But amidst that sorrow, there was a moment of light. My friend Michelle, who had been my roommate when I first got Jasper and was like his second mom, called me on Mother’s Day. She didn’t offer platitudes or try to fix anything. She simply acknowledged the day and checked in on me.

That small gesture meant the world. It validated my feelings and reminded me that my bond with Jasper was real and significant. The weight I was carrying felt a little lighter, knowing someone else saw and understood my pain.

To all the pet moms out there, especially those who are grieving: I see you. I honor your love, your loss, and your journey. And if you know someone who’s lost a beloved pet, reach out. A simple call or message can make a profound difference. Sometimes, the smallest acknowledgements can bring the greatest comfort.