Nikita's Loss by summer1412
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Description
When we went to Big Cat Rescue in Tampa, the volunteer that was showing us around informed all the visitors that Niki hadn't been doing that well, since her cagemate had died. She had mentioned that Nikita had been doing calls in the middle of the night, and had also lost a bit of her appetite since the passing of the other lion she shared her cage with. While going through my pictures afterward, and recently as well, and found this - she may have just been closing her eyes, but there seems to be sadness in her expression.
The picture is rather fitting for me tonight, considering I've been extremely depressed today. Just thinking about the people I've lost, those whom I miss and love so dearly. Even now, thinking about it, I'm getting teary. I don't know. Loss and pain are universal, and it's striking me more and more that it isn't the event itself that hurts, but afterward. Because losing someone you love is a gap, an immeasurable space within your soul, that can never again be filled. And in death, we must find the strength and the will to teach ourselves how to live with that loss. It's the hardest thing we can ever learn.
I miss you, Poppa.
Thank you all for viewing, comments welcome as always.
Comments (7)
Faemike55
I don't know which tears me up the most, the story about Nikita or your own sorrow. I do know that this image is one of the most impressive, coupled with the story is so heart-wrenching. I'd like to say that over time, loss can be dealt with, but I know it can't... Take care of yourself
ledwolorz
Beautiful capture.
BessieB
This photo does show how sad this big cat is, losing anyone is always sad and its not easy to accept loss or even come to terms with it. My thoughts are with you, as are my prayers, take good care of yourself.
HADCANCER
Viewing this pic made me very sleepy. I am sorry for your loss. May time heal your wounds quickly
romanceworks
I believe animals do feel loss and grieve in their own way. And for me the loss of someone I dearly loved is indeed the deepest pain one can endure. My love for them, and my need for their love in return, never fades. CC
MrsLubner
One of the reasons I started taking pictures as a child was in a frantic effort to never lose the past. Its almost a psychotic thing...I can't let time slip by lest I lose the occurances, people and events that shaped me - from the worst of the moments to the very, very best...I have to hang on to them. I still reach for the phone at odd times to call my dad and tell him about something significant in my life only to realize a moment later that he's been gone for over 18 years now. Time does not erase these things...it only puts more space between the occurances. As we all must do, this creature is taking the time to adjust and mourn and heal in her own way, in her own time. Wonderful shot - soft and gentle.
MrsRatbag
Wonderful capture