A few days ago, in the quiet, early morning, I made one of the hardest decisions of my life. I said goodbye to my sweet Max.
Max wasn’t just a dog - he was my partner in resilience, my protector through life’s storms, and my shadow who followed me everywhere. Max had just turned four. It was a tender, far-too-short life filled with more love, loyalty, and lessons than I could have imagined.
His life didn’t start out easy. We rescued him from an abusive home, a place where trust had been shattered. From the moment he walked into our lives, though, Max chose love. And he chose me.
Wherever I went, Max was there. Always. It was as if his purpose was to ensure I was okay, to be my steadfast companion.
During my battle with a brain tumor and my ongoing struggles with autoimmune issues, Max was my constant. I know it may sound strange, but it often felt as if he absorbed my pain. He carried my burden, giving me the space and strength to keep moving forward. He bore my struggles in silence, with the same unwavering loyalty he had shown since the day we rescued him.
And then, when I reached a good place in my health - when I was finally standing on solid ground again - it was as though Max knew his work was done. He started to let go.
Making the decision to say goodbye was excruciating. I had to play the hand of God, choosing his peace over the pain of holding on. It was one of the hardest acts of love I’ve ever had to show, but it reminded me of something profound: love isn’t just about the moments we share. It’s also about having the courage to let go when the time comes.
These moments - these crossroads of life - aren’t things we talk about often. They don’t come with step-by-step guides. They come with tears, doubt, and fear. They force us to confront questions we don’t want to ask: Can I do this? Am I strong enough? Is it time to let go?
Maybe you’ve faced a moment like this. Maybe you’re standing at one right now. Maybe it’s saying goodbye to a relationship that feels more like a weight than a lifeline. Or releasing a dream that no longer serves you. Or letting go of a version of yourself that you’ve outgrown.
Whatever it is, I want you to know this: You are not alone.
These decisions - while agonizing - teach us something deeply profound about life and love. They remind us that courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s choosing to act in spite of it. They teach us that love isn’t just about holding on - it’s about trusting that letting go can be just as powerful, just as meaningful, and just as brave.
Max’s life was one of resilience and redemption. He came into this world in pain, but he left surrounded by love. His passing has left a hole in my heart, but it’s also left me with a profound gratitude for the lessons he taught me.
As I sit with his memory, I challenge you to reflect on your own life.
Where is love asking you to make a hard decision? What are you holding onto that may be ready for release?
Take one small step toward that choice. Write it down. Reflect on it. Speak it aloud to someone you trust. Because even in our hardest goodbyes, we find strength, grace, and growth.
Max taught me that. And now, I hope his story teaches you too.
With love and reflection,
Dr. Renea
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