142 thoughts on “and those bright lights”

1. I’m so very sorry for your loss, Wil. Felix was lucky to have such a wonderful staff during his time here on Earth. I’ll be thinking of you and your family.

2. Hi Wil,
   I’m so sorry about your Bear. His tail was so cute! I had a very fat Himalayan kitty with a bobtail-like deformity. Chowzer would flick her little puffy tail almost constantly. It was crazy cute. I bet they’ll be friends in the kitty afterlife!
   Azure

3. Wil,
   You should take all the time you need to process your grief. It takes time to get past the hurt and loss. Your story of Felix has made me think of my only lost soul, Julien. Now when I look back, there’s less sadness of his loss and more smiles at the joy he brought me. It does get better but we never forget. I hope the sadness lessens with the passing days. I will be thinking of you and your family.
   Sandra

4. I am sorry, Wil, for what you have been through with Felix. When I lost Athena I felt much the same as you do now.
   I can tell you, though, that it does get a little easier as time goes by, and that in a way, you do end up exchanging the old, frail image of your companion for the younger, more vibrant cat you once knew. I lost an older cat many years ago, and though it tore me up at the time, I now look back on all the memories of her, and she is forever young, and happy.
   I fully believe we will end up with all those we loved while we lived here. Logic tells you otherwise, but in your heart you know it to be true. You will see your Bear again, and he will be healthy and alive again. I am sure of it.

5. VoxyLady, this is probably what you read, from http://rainbowsbridge.com/ :
   Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
   When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
   All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
   They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
   You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
   Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together….

6. Wil and family: Nothing I can say right now will make what you are going any easier. Time heals all wounds. You’ll be in my prayers.
   Ana Marylee

7. Wil;
   And especially to Anne, my deep condolences on the loss of your Bear. Last Tues. I had to free my kitty Ellie from her cancer ravaged body. She was my friend of 16 years, and it’s inconceivable that she is no longer here. I understand the feeling of expecting to see her in all the usual places..Her pal Abbey is now sleeping in the bed I bought for her in her last month; I’m not sure she has really caught on yet to what has happened.
   Ellie was lucky, healthy all her life right to the end, but the illness came swift and savagely. She began to lose weight, and Ellie loved to eat. Finally, I had to hand feed her baby food for the last month and administer water with an eyedropper. She rarely left the bed I bought her, and I kept her with me as much as possible. She fell to 5 lbs and could barely walk but she would still purr when I fed her and stroked her. Finally though, it was time to let her escape the frail, devasted body and go to her rest. I believe she is now at peace, and back to her robust, healthy self that was my friend for so long.I hope that maybe she’ll meet Felix and they can share a nap together in the sun after a big meal.
   My thoughts are with you and your family and may you all find peace in your happy memories and knowing you were a great family for him.

8. Take your time, put your energies into your family and other obligations; grieve; cry; scream. But remember that talking about it can help, and we are all here to listen. My sympathies to you and your family.

9. Ack. This whole thing stinks.
   Take 5, man… You know us: We’ll be here when you get back.
   –AJ

10. Wil, Anne, and boys,
    Sorry for your loss.
    I’m no more original, so what they all said goes for me too.
    Pain is another sign of growth.

11. Wil,
    Do what needs doing. We will be here whenever you are ready to be here too. I wish you and your family peace.

12. The thought that springs into my head is of Felix, sitting in a chair to keep it warm for the Pope who will be joining him shortly.
    They are much alike in their way, they have given their love to their new families and brought joy to them, and when they are gone a lot of people will be sad, but also relieved; the pain is over.
    I’m no catholic; I haven’t spoken to God since 2001. But tonight I sat at home after work and the gym, watching the news and seeing the impact a man of peace has made to so many people in the world. I also thought about Felix, and his world, known collectively as the Wheaton Family.
    Nightnight Felix; angels are not for eating though! =^.^=
    ~*Hugs*~

13. MAybe this is a bizarre mental connection, but since one of my favorite comedians (and in my opinion, one of the best of all time), Mitch Hedberg just died, it kind of brings a smile to my face thinking that Felix is hanging out with Mitch, listening to him fire off his skewed observations. I can just see them both arriving at whatever world awaits. Mitch looks over and says “Hey, a cat. Alright!”
    No matter what, I’m sure The Bear is Stumpin’ around a new playground checking out the new sensations, and sending back his kitty energy postcards from his new locale.

14. . . . reading about him makes me wish I could have seen him stumpin around, could have been on his rotation, too . . . but I am genuinely glad to have read about him, and to know that his fuzzy, confident self did walk this earth for a while . . . my heart goes out to you and Anne and the kids . . .

15. Im sorry! My deepest to you and your family Wil! It brought tears to my eyes to read this post because it reminded me when my cat marla died. I can remember comming home and wondering where my cat was because usually she would greet me when I walked in the house but, one day she did not come to the door and I automatically knew something was wrong. So I searched my home and I finaly found her in the basement behind some boxes and she was really sick and had thrown up in the area she was in. It was late at night so I told myself that I would take her to the vet the next morning and I was living with my parents at the time. I layed my cat in the bed with me and we slept next to eachother and sometime during the middle of the night marla got up and went into the bathroom and layed on the floor and my mother happened to wake up and see her there so my mother sat beside her and rubbed her silky furr and my mom said the last thing she did was look up and meowed at her and that was the last time my kitty was alive. I couldn’t go to school I was so heart broken. I wish there was some way that we all could make your pain vanish but, the reality is we can’t but you have to be strong for you and your family and you know that. I hope you feel better soon Wil and that goes for Anne and the boys also.

16. My condolences, Wil, on your loss. I know how hard it is, I’ve been in your shoes before. My family is thinking of your family in this difficult time.

17. Wil, I’m sorry to hear of your loss. Felix was well loved, that’s for sure, and there are tons of us out here in the blogosphere who will miss him, too. Much love to you and Anne! Your public will anxiously await your return!

18. I feel your pain Wil. The story of my Fuzzyman parallels The Bear’s tale right to the end. He was ready, we were not but they do let you know it is time. I’ve seen my share of sadness in this life but nothing made me cry more than the moment the Fuzzyman received the injection that stopped his heart. A mix of relief in easing his pain, the hurt of letting him go and guilt that I could have done more for him. I loved that cat and to this day wake up in the night wishing his furry body was laid across head and neck, purring loudly. I feel your pain Wil. Thank you for sharing.

19. I am so sorry for the loss to your family, Wil. The whole that has been left will never filled by another because there will never be another Bear. However, he will live on within you and within the hearts of those who knew him and of him. Keep the good memories with you, baby. Let them and Bear’s memory comfort you.
    In time, you will stop looking for him or thinking you hear him. Instead, you will see him favorite napping place and smile at the memory of the tummy rubs and quiet talks.
    You are not alone in your loss or your mourning, Wil.

20. *hugs*
    I just read this and your previous entry and they’ve reduced me to tears.
    I am so sorry for your loss, Wil (and family).
    Take your time. Do what you need to do. We’re all here for you when you need us.
    *hugs*

21. First time reading your blog, and sorry to say it was under these circumstances. Have faith, and it time it all should get better.
    Morris
    http://www.crazypromofun.com (free advice over any subject)

22. Hang in there, Wil. Time heals all, we’ll be here when you get back.
    -L

23. (found your blog in such a strange way ~ you’re probably aware there’s a meme going around called ‘who’s your famous blogger twin?’ apparently you’re mine … anway)
    I am so sorry to hear of this 🙁 Today would have been the birthday of my Bear~like love (Buddha) that passed away in 2003
    They are such sweet souls. Peace to you & yours

24. Wheatons
    aka Felix’ Faithful Staff:
    Deepest sympathy and condolences to you. My lil buddy Scooter disappeared last August and I still miss her dearly, and I still look for her as I pass her favorite hangouts… and I swear I still hear her coming into the room to hang out with me as I watch TV.
    Rob

25. Wil, I’m so sorry to hear that Felix couldn’t stay any longer. When you’re ready for it, dig up some photos and relish the memories.

26. His spirit is probably lingering in those places he loved best — that’s why you keep seeing him out of the corner of your eye.
    My heart goes out to all of you. Best wishes.

27. Will, man, I’m thinking about you, and your family, and your absent friend.
    It will always suck… But it will get easier.
    I can’t call what I’m sending your way anything as light-hearted as “Mojo,” but I’ve been where you are, and I grok. So what support I can lend, I’m sending you through the aether.

28. Wil,
    I was thinking about you and your family while I was at the vet today with our cat and one of the dogs. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Mycondolences.

29. Man. I’ve never had, and hence never lost, a pet, so I can’t really imagine how this must feel for you, but I think I get the idea. My thoughts are with you guys.
    Don’t feel bad about taking time out from writing here; I’m sure when you’re back, we’ll all still be here reading.

30. *hug*
    We’re with you, Wil.

31. hey wil,
    i’m so sorry about felix! i know how devastating it can be, i had to put down my black lab a few years ago. as difficult as it is, keep in mind that felix knew well that he was dearly loved. i know he went very peacefully being surrounded by his family or as you say, “staff”. 🙂
    mucho hugs to you, anne, and the boys.

32. Oh Wil,
    I’m so sorry for your loss. I know that it is hard and I hope you feel better soon. The Bear was loved and had a grand life. He’ll be missed.

33. Hey buddy,
    A lot of hugs and a gentle shoulder for you and your family. Most words right now will not make any of this easier. Everytime you think of Felix always remember his purrs, his snuggles, and his love.

34. Wil,
    I’m so sorry for you and your family and the loss of Felix. I wish I could make it better for you all but of course only time will help ease some of the pain you feel now. Sending good mojo and love your way. Take your time Wil your adoring audience will be here when you are ready to return.

35. Oh God, Wil.
    I’m so sorry.

36. Wil and Anne,
    I have been praying for you guys every chance I get!! Even though this probably does not help, I can’t say how sorry I am for you both and your family. I know this is a hard time, and words don’t seem to help. Wil, you take all the time you need from posting and what not. We will be here waiting to hear from you. If you think I’m leaving, yeah well, not happening!!!! I wish you all the best that can be right now.

37. Different people grieve in different ways. Take all the time you need, Wil. We’ll wait as long as it takes. We send our condolences to you and your family.
    Love and Hugs from the Sisterhood of Shes (PA Division),
    Analee Harriman (shewhobeatsass)
    Madeline Kimmel (shewhokicksass)
    Angela Stevanus (shewhowhupsass)
    Wendy Harriman (shewhoistooyoungtostayuplate)

38. Wil, Anne and the Boys,
    I can not begin to express my sorrow at your lose. I recently had to put my cat Sandy to sleep and I cried for 30 minutes in the parking lot. Sandy was suffering from cancer and I felt so shitty because I could do nothing to help her. I understand the feeling of lose and I want you to know that I am praying for you and Felix. Remember the good times and he will never be gone. I truly wish that there was sonething we your loyal friends and fans could do for you. Always remember how much he loved you even if you (and all cat owners) were just his servents.
    Mike

39. Remember you have only lost in in the physical world but at night when you dream he will always be ready to join you to ease your mind

40. *hugs*

41. My cat Angel and I pass along our deepest sympathy.

42. So sorry, Wil.
    Time is the best healer. You take all the time you need to adjust and grieve. The site is secondary at this point. Life comes first.
    Scott

43. So sorry, Wil.
    Time is the best healer. You take all the time you need to adjust and grieve. The site is secondary at this point. Life comes first.
    Scott

44. So sorry about that, Wil. 🙁 Deepest sympathies to you and your family. Rest in peace, Felix.

45. Wil,
    I am so sorry for your loss. Not everyone understands that our pets become a part of our families. I hope that in this time of sorrow you remeber that our loved ones go on to a better place and someday we will se them again.

46. I have two cats and one basset hound myself. They all loved my mom and she loved them. It was just two years ago in February 2003 when my mom passed away after four and a half months in the hospital because of cancer.
    On Christmas Day 2002, the nurses at the hospital let my dad and I bring our basset, Barney. My mom had to have been blessed by St. Francis of Assisi, even though no one in my family is Catholic. (St. Francis was the patron saint of animals and was always kind to them)
    I got pictures of my mom in her hospital bed with us holding Barney beside her. Even two years later, I still cannot look at those pictures without crying, and it’s made me cry even now just writing this. It probably doiesn’t help that I’m watching MSNBC trying to find any news on the condition of Pope John Paul II.
    Maybe if Hunter Thompson had just waited a bit, all this news of this week from Johnnie Cochran, Terri Schiavo and now the Pope, all that drama might have made him forget his own pain. But then again, being as crazy as he was, he’d probably still want to go out with a bang.
    What was really scary was to see the Pope’s appearance this past Wednesday. He clearly was not the Pope of just weeks ago. He looked to be in great pain. He almost looked like he had shrunken. When he put his hand to his head, it was like you could almost tell.
    I almost wonder if I’m delving off-topic here, talking about the Pope. But then, perhaps it all fits. I might not have known Felix the Bear, but I feel your loss, Wil.

47. Dear Wil,
    Thank you for the email back (he loved the scritch) and I’m really glad you liked the banner I made to remember Felix THE BEAR by. Charlie and I give you (and the rest of the family) lots of love and hugs. Iime heals all wounds. I once had an argument with someone about how an animal could be considered part of the family and this person said that it’s not right to do that. I asked if they had any pets and they said, “no” and you know what I said? “Then you have no idea what you’re talking about, cause if you had a pet and loved that pet alot, then you would probably feel that the pet is part of the family.” They shut up right away. Charlie The Cat maybe a cat, but like you, I love Charlie so much that I wouldn’t know what I’d do without him. I’ve had him for 14 years already. Don’t worry Wil, it gets easier as time goes by. Charlie and I may not know you or your family personally, but we understand the bond that you (and the family) had with Felix THE BEAR.
    With love,
    Morgan and Charlie The Cat

48. hey wil,
    many condolences to you and the family. We’ll all still be here when you get back, you have much more important things to think about right now.
    take care,
    from rach

49. My husband has been gently mocking me for following this blog for years, but apparently he has also been reading it, because he emailed me a link to yesterday’s article. He later amitted it gave him a lump in his throat, adding “he’s a good writer.”
    If you knew my husband, you’d realize what high praise this is.
    Sorry about The Bear, Wil, but keep writing.

50. Very few, that are not cat owners, understand that cats are more than just a pet…they are a member of the family. They mean as much to you as a child. Losing such a valued member of your family is a difficult and painful process. It helps to remember the little things that made you laugh and smile. There is never a shame in crying and in time the pain will fade, but the good memories never will. So cheer up family, you beloved Felix is never more than a memory away. It will be alright.

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