This is a post that I always knew I’d need to write, but I have long dreaded the time when I would have to announce the loss of my treasured companion and friend. Grace and I started our journey together in June of 2005 when she was about eight months old. On August 28, 2019, just shy of turning 15, my husband and I said good-bye to her. It was peaceful, yet overflowing with emotion, feeling gratitude for the many years of a fulfilling relationship in equal measure to the raw sadness of losing her.
A significant impact
Grace made a significant impact on my life, personally and professionally. Timid and guarded by nature, she challenged me in ways that opened my perspective of how to have a mutually beneficial partnership. The lessons she taught me often meant changes for me–and not necessarily ones that I wanted or were easy to make. Yet she persevered with her teachings. And I was determined to learn.
Early on, I saw the parallels in business environments and a friend encouraged me to write about it. Over the years, it has been my privilege and joy to share these stories with you. One of the highlights of her recognition was the segment that aired on NHPR about Grace and how dogs provide leadership lessons. A few personal favorites posts include how we maneuvered through agility classes, our annual roadside clean-up gig, and the importance of taking unexpected paths.
Graceful Leadership is eternal
Grace will forever remain in my heart and she’ll stay present in my new posts for this Graceful Leadership blog. Her work hasn’t ended, as I suspect there are unknown lessons from Grace I have yet to realize. At the same time, her memory reminds me to do so many things, like get outside every day for a long walk (something she insisted on!), turn obstacles into opportunities, and enjoy life even when you have to face your fear.
One day, my husband and I will welcome another dog into our lives, which I believe will make Grace very happy. Animals have tremendous capacity for unconditional devotion and that’s something we humans would do well to follow their lead on.
Grace and I will walk eternally together, loving and learning as we always have. It would be my delight to hear how Grace has impacted you. If you have a favorite lesson or just a general impression, I hope you will share so all of us can benefit from her legacy.
