R.I.P. Baraka, 1994 - 2010

Baraka watches
Originally uploaded by B.D.'s world

He died last night at around 12:20 am. I spent the last 5 hours or so of his life lying next to him, comforting him, petting him, loving him, crying, feeling helpless, learning to accept the inevitable once again, telling him stories of his early life with us, singing to him, and thanking him for all that he brought to my life. Before he passed his head rose one last time and, as I often did, I petted his little "rhino-nose" bump. He, as he often did, opened his mouth in a seeming smile, then let out a sigh and slowly let his head fall back into his paws. I told Shawn a couple of minutes later and together we grieved.

Loving and loyal companion, gentle friend and brother, homeboyee. He is missed already. My feelings for Baraka are vast and deep. I promised him that he would not die alone nor in a hospital. Promise kept.

Color us grieving this weekend and beyond.