Sigmund died yesterday.

Those of you who listened to my old podcasts will remember him.

He is Kristen's cat who was diagnosed with cancer over 14 months ago.

At the time we were told that he had only three to four more months to live,

but Kristen gave him alternative treatments,

nutritional supplements, acupuncture, and herbs. He lived for 14 months.

During that time he got love and attention and was able to be with

Kristen with whom he has a special bond. He died yesterday in their apartment.

Kristen was with him.

He was a very sweet and affectionate cat.

He loved to put his head on Kristen's shoulder, covering his face with her long hair and purr.

Kristen has had him since he was a kitten.

So of course she is very sad now, as am I.

We've been meditating and praying for him,

and we have been reading the Tibetan book of living and dying,

a wise and beautiful book about life and death.

Through all of this I am reminded that love and compassion are for all sentient beings.

It's the reason I became a vegetarian, for I do not wish to contribute

to the suffering of any being. I believe that animals in fact are wonderful teachers and companions.

Their innocence and relative helplessness challenge us to expand our loving kindness to embrace all. For this I am grateful. Most of all I'm grateful for the

happiness that Sigmund gave Kristen and myself.