Golden Bridge

An Adaptation of The Rainbow Bridge Story for Golden Retrievers

Just this side of Heaven is a place called The Golden Bridge. When a Golden Retriever dies that has been especially close to someone here, that dog goes to Golden Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water, and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the Golden Retrievers who had been ill or old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days gone by. There are no more ear infections or hip problems for any Golden there. The Golden's are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them who had to be left behind. They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; his eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling to each other in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress that beloved gold head and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Golden Bridge together........

Alan Stokes
June 19, 2013