We lost our dog the other day.  She was always healthy and bright and energetic and opinionated and has left an enormous hole in our lives.   We had over 10 years together as a pack.

Fortunately, I got an assist

which helped me realize for me is how much our relationships are built on reaching and withdrawing from others.  I give, you take.  I run away, you follow.  I seek you out, you listen to me.  We smash into each other, go our separate ways, then regroup later on.  Life is thrilling if you can handle the intense highs and lows.   What a game.