NEMO, THE SLED DOG

Six or eight decades ago, a non-descript Husky named ‘Nemo’ regularly took his place as the team leader of a fine group of sled dogs; somewhere in the Arctic Circle. And without pause or fail, day after day, week after week, month after month, year after year, Nemo was present for duty, and never failed to meet the expectations of his master; and then some.

However, like any and all of God’s creatures who inhabit the earth, Nemo began to show the effects of his age. And the daily turmoil of hauling a sled and its load took its toll on him. Ultimately, it was all too obvious to his owner that Nemo was nearing the end of his journey, and might soon be crossing the proverbial Rainbow Bridge.

And while the faithful dog’s master began to think about appointing a new team leader, and considered giving the aged Husky a rest, it seems his faithful canine would have none of it. For even after Nemo contracted a serious illness, he struggled to the front of the sled team, and almost joyfully allowed his driver to hook him up.

Ultimately, Nemo struggled to his lead position one more time, albeit at a comparatively slower gait than the day before, and the day before that. I can almost visualize Nemo’s human master, as he adjusted the reins about him, tightened the leather harnesses, stepped behind the sled, and shouted a verbal command. And they were off.

However, after just five miles along the snowy trail, the faithful Nemo finally dropped to the ground, and breathed his last; having joyfully given his best.

Just one more story among thousands of instances in which the lowliest of God’s creatures have evoked the sort of strength and nobility, embraced the sort of leadership, responsibility and commitment, and served as role models to a creature of a higher order, and with vastly more potential; namely mankind.

Rest in Peace, Nemo

By William McDonald, PhD. From (Mc)Donald's Daily Diary. Vol. 80. Copyright pending

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