Monday, April 3, 2023

Milliron Monday: Chimes

The front porch at Wolf Creek Animal Care, Stockport, Ohio

Abbott "Pete" Smith D.V.M.:  June 16, 1938 - February 22, 2010
Virginia Joyann "Jody" Haley Smith: April 2, 1938 - May 9, 2021
Welcome to Milliron Monday where every Monday we celebrate the legacy of Milliron Farm and Clinic, Dr. Pete and Jody Smith. 

"Through the strongest storms or the softest breeze, listen to the wind and think of me."

It was cold this morning. The wind whipped around the front porch at Wolf Creek Animal Care. It was Tinker's eight week follow-up for his broken leg. I sat in the morning sun in the wood-like porch chair with Tinker snuggled in his Pet Taxi at my feet. Dr. Whalin's parking lot was full. I was far on the list to be seen, but the hours I spent on the porch waiting was more inspiring than I could have imagined. 

Large dogs, teeny-weeny dogs, a parrot, and cats were all waiting to see Dr. Whalin. Most stayed in their cars until their name was called. The biting wind kept them off the front porch, and one man said the wind chimes were too annoying. But, I didn't mind, I liked the chimes. They were just above my head. The wind gently moved each metal rod, creating a Zen-like percussion. 

As the animals came out of the veterinary clinic, another was called to go in. A young man and woman walked onto the porch. They were leaving, but without their pet. Tears came easily as they walked slowly to their parked car. Their elderly dog was having seizures and had to be euthanized (a woman told me later). As the chimes played a chance-based, heavenly song, I silently cried. I tilted my head back onto the porch chair, my face completely in the sun, and I wished the couple knew that maybe their dog was crying, too.


~ ~ ~ ~

We remember Jody on her birthday, April 2.


  
Through captivating, powerful, and emotional anecdotes, we celebrate the life of Dr. Abbott P. Smith. His biography takes the reader from smiles to laughter to empathy and tears. Dr. Smith gave us compelling lessons learned from animals; the role animals play in the human condition, the joy of loving an animal, and the awe of their spirituality. A tender and profound look into the life of a skilled veterinarian.

  

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