GoodBye ChaCha - I miss you so much

[chaos]

I'm weeping as I write this but somehow being able to share my loss is a help. ChaCha was my lutino cockatiel. He was treated at Cornell University for allergies but he also had a weak heart. He passed 12/4/06. I still wake up expecting to hear ChaCha's whistling. When does the pain go away, or lessen. I don't know but I know I'll never forget ChaCha and the beauty he brought into my world. I know that we should never go through losing a pet alone. So if I can pass any advice onto bird owners, it is to share your grief, don't be embarrassed or afraid to speak up, and be proud of the wonderful bond you shared with your FID. I've heard the people who say it is only a bird; what's the big fuss. To them I would reply:

From time to time people tell me "lighten up. it's just a bird", or "that's a lot of money for just a bird". They don't understand the distance traveled, the time spent, and the costs involved for "just a bird."

Some of my proudest moments have come about with "just a bird".

Many hours have passed and my only company was "just a bird", but I did not once feel slighted.

Some of my saddest moments have been brought about by "just a bird", and in those days of darkness, the gentle touch of "just a bird" gave me comfort and reason to overcome the day.

If you too think it's "just a bird", then you will probably understand phrases like "just a friend" or "just a sunrise" or "just a promise". "Just a bird" brings into my life the very essence of friendship, trust, and pure unbridled joy. "Just a bird" brings out the compassion and patience that makes me a better person. Because of "just a bird" I will rise early, eat healthier, and look longingly to the future.

So for me and folks like me, it's not "just a bird" but an embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future, the fond memories of the past, and the pure joy of the moment. "Just a bird" brings out whats good in me and diverts my thoughts away from myself and the worries of the day.

I hope that someday they can understand that it's not "just a bird" but the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being "just a person".

So the next time you hear the phrase "just a bird", just smile, because they "just don't understand".

For my ChaCha who was far from being "Just a bird".
ChaCha, you'll never be forgotten, you'll always be loved, and no matter how many birds may come into my life, you'll always hold a special and unique place in my heart. You made my life beautiful for 10 years. Goodbye, my friend.

[kiwilito]

I am so sorry for your loss. It will take a while for the pain to lessen but eventually it will and you will be ready to get another bird companion.
I have recently lost our GCC Kiwi and I know how awful it is.

[dgcashier]

It takes awhile. Our lutino cockatiel shared our lives for 23 yrs. He was like my child for all those yrs. He passed in 2001 and I still think of him with love and remember all the good things about him. It does get easier.
When the time is right, get a new friend. Only you will know when that is.

[chaos]

I can't seem to even think about getting another cockatiel. ChaCha was not only my best friend but he hung out with my Blue Crowned Conure, Taco. So Taco is kind of lost too. But I do have 5 birds now and I just feel that there is no way to replace ChaCha.

[malador]

There is never a way to "replace" any of them. No more than you can replace a beloved friend or family member. They are special and unique, every one of them. I know the pain is terrible and sometimes it seems that it will never end but it will lessen in time. I am very sorry for your loss.

[birdlady49]

Ten years ago, my Smokey (CAG) passed away in my arms at my avian vet's hospital. He had uncontrollable diabetes and possibly cancer. He was only six years old. I saved his ashes and I look at them every day and sigh..

It does get a little easier, but you never forget.

[GracienGeorge]

Dear Cha Cha's mommie,

That was sooo lovely reading.... and i mourn alongside with you and your loss!!!!! Our condolences, and sharing your loss is what we are here for, as dedicated bird owners/guardians. Thank you for opening your feelings to us all :) It is appreciated :)