What They Teach Us About Life

Jayda and Me at Smith Point Campground

This week, I found myself struggling to sit down and write. My heart has been heavy after saying goodbye to my beloved dog, Jayda. She wasn’t just a pet — she was family. For years, she greeted me with a wagging tail and eyes that seemed to say, “I’m here for you, no matter what.” And she truly was.

Losing a pet leaves a silence in the home that feels almost unbearable. No more paws clicking across the floor, no more soft nudges asking for a walk, no more loyal shadow following me from room to room. Yet in that silence, I find myself reflecting on the many lessons our pets leave behind — lessons about love, loyalty, and living fully in the present moment.

Jayda reminded me daily that love doesn’t need words to be felt. She showed me the joy of simple pleasures — a walk in the fresh air, a nap in the sun, the excitement of a treat (or two). And most of all, she reminded me of the beauty of unconditional love — the kind that doesn’t keep score, doesn’t hold grudges, and is always there, no matter what.

As I navigate this loss, I realize that while Jayda may no longer be at my side, the love she gave me will always remain in my heart. Perhaps that’s the greatest lesson pets leave us with: even when they’re gone, their love never leaves.

So, this week, my message is simple. If you have a furry friend at home, give them an extra hug. Take that walk they’re begging for. Share that treat. And if, like me, you’re missing a pet who’s crossed the rainbow bridge, take comfort in knowing their love is still with you — forever and ever, amen.

And because this column is always about celebrating Long Island, I’ll leave you with this: our community is filled with wonderful places that honor the bond between humans and their pets. Whether it’s strolling through the dog-friendly trails at Heckscher State Park, enjoying the pet-friendly patios at local cafés, taking your pup for some salty air and sandy paws at Mud Creek Dog Park Beach in East Patchogue, Port Jefferson Dog Beach, Smith Point Beach, or supporting amazing rescue groups like the Town of Oyster Bay Animal Shelter or Little Shelter Animal Rescue in Huntington, there are so many ways to keep the love of pets alive in our daily lives.

Although Jayda is no longer by my side, her love lingers in the ocean breeze, in the rhythm of the waves, and in the quiet beauty of every Long Island sunset.