Eleven years ago on Good Friday, April 18, 2014, our brother Lemmy crossed Rainbow Bridge. It isn’t every year that the dates align, so that makes this anniversary all the more poignant. It’s also bittersweet, that after over a decade apart, Lemmy and Chuck Billy are together again.
I remember Angel Chuck Billy telling me about that final week he had with Lemmy. Back then where Mom worked, that week was the busiest one in the year. Yet they let her drop everything to be home with her dear boy, and for that she is forever grateful. Dad was also able to take time out of work, so they could be together as a family before saying goodbye. There were visits from friends and family. Trips to a few of Lemmy’s favorite places. And lots of quiet time together, before Lemmy bravely headed off over Rainbow Bridge.
In contrast, Chuck Billy didn’t have that time. He left us very quickly. We didn’t even know he was sick! At least with Lemmy, there was a gradual decline, to somewhat prepare everyone. But maybe it was Chuck Billy’s plan to suddenly leave? He experienced that long goodbye to Lemmy. Maybe he wanted to spare us that pain? Chuck Billy was always very protective of our family.
Last year on the 10th anniversary, Chuck Billy wrote a heartfelt post updating Lemmy on all that he missed during that time. A decade is a long time to be apart. So on this anniversary, I share with you that letter, while taking comfort knowing that Lemmy and Chuck Billy are catching up on all those years apart.
Dear Lemmy, Ten Years Later (April 18, 2024)
Dear Lemmy, today marks the tenth anniversary since you crossed Rainbow Bridge. Yet you’ll always continue to be a big presence in our daily lives. I think I’ve done a good job fulfilling my promise to make sure Asa knows you. In fact, I did such a good job that friends around the world know your stories too.
Mom and Dad still talk about you a lot. Funny thing is though, as each year passes, the better you become in those stories. No need to thank me for reminding them just how quirky you really were. I mean seriously, whoever heard of a Golden Retriever who would go on hunger strikes for days waiting for Dad to return from trips? You certainly found a dramatic way to get your point across when you were upset. You wouldn’t have to skip any meals now though. Dad stopped traveling for work shortly after you left us. We’re together as a pack all day, every day, just how you wanted. Thanks for everything you taught Mom and Dad. Oh don’t get me wrong. They are still a work in progress! But Mom and Dad were listening when you taught them that family is most important, and needed to be put first. Asa and I really enjoy having them working from home now.
Speaking of home, not much has changed since you left. This includes the drool mark you left on the windowsill in the living room. Mom refuses to wash it away, and we still refer to it as “Lemmy’s window.” Your favorite dog bed is still in the living room too. It’s now my favorite bed. Alright, I apologize for stealing your spot on it when you were sick. I was a puppy, and didn’t know better. You were so patient with me back then, even when you didn’t feel your best and just wanted peace to sleep. Your bed is lumpier now. Oh and Mom moved it! I know you don’t like change, but this is a change you’d approve. It is now directly in front of the couch, instead of by the toy box, so we can be closer. Wish you were closer.
Your best friend, Mr. Octopus, continues to be close though. He has a place of honor by Mom’s desk, the desk you hid under when I joined the family! Was I really that annoying? Wait, don’t answer that! Anyways, Mr. Octopus likes to look out the window at the neighborhood, that you may have trouble recognizing now. Your cow friends, that you would take Dad on walks to visit, have moved away. There is a house in their field now, and even more houses where there were once woods for you to hike. Remember that time you found a moose skeleton in those woods? I’m still envious of that find! Do moose hangout in the same area as you over Rainbow Bridge, or do they prefer their privacy there too?
Speaking of sightings, any chance you’ve seen Bigfoot where you are now? I continue to maintain the UFO bunker you built, but have made some improvements over the years. Thanks Lemmy for introducing me to my passion for ufology. I admit I didn’t believe you when you told me about your UFO abduction at the veterinarian’s office. But after experiencing myself that missing period of time at the same animal hospital and waking to find a medical procedure was done on me too, I’m totally a believer!
Oh look at me, rambling on like this. It’s just that after being apart from you for 10 years there is so much I want to tell you. But then again, I know in my heart that you already know all of our “news.” We’ve seen those signs that you sent us, letting us know you’re always nearby. Love you, Lemmy! Thanks for being the best big brother. Take good care of Grandpa for us! And I’m sure Aunty Danielle is spoiling you. See you at the end of the trail, my brother….
Love Always, Chuck Billy & Asa
