Stup MemorialAll alone, next to an old country road sat an abandoned puppy. This puppy was calm and sluggish with no worries insight. He watched as cars would pass in hope that one would stop to take him in. This puppy became my beloved friend, Stup. The dog I’ve had for over eight or nine years. A friend of mine who was in the reserves at the time, and I, looked for this young puppy a home. We drove several miles to a number of houses in hope that one could become his dwelling. After many failed attempts it was agreed that he would live with me at my menagerie, until a home for him was found in the near future.
Stup was always a happy dog. He enjoyed being with all the animals and would often help herd the goats, chickens, pigs, ducks or any animal that would escape from its pen. He was in many ways like a human. We even began to give each other hugs, which became his lifelong tradition.
Stup was there for me through the majority of my early life hardships. He was the God given one who helped me through many failed relationships. He was there through my military experience, divorce, and during the coming out of my sexuality. He never let me down and was always ready to love me after a long day of work. He was a true joy to live with and he always gained the respect of every animal I ever owned. Stup got his name partially from my father. When I was living at home Stup would run free and would often sleep under the garage beneath the vehicles. When my father would crank his truck in the morning, Stup wouldn’t move. He would lie there lifeless as with no cares or worries. My father had no choice but to move him from under his truck himself. That’s where he got the idea to name him Stupid. I was never fond of that name. It always bothered me to call him Stupid; so therefore, I shortened his name to Stup. This name became perfect for him. He looked like a Stup and acted like a Stup. This was the name he became known by; although I would often call him, “my Big Bear” or “Stuppy Doopy”. Two thousand eight was an amazing year for Stup. He did become more laid back, lazy and really had the chance to enjoy his aged life at the Poet Shack. At many times I would joke around with Phillip or other friends by saying, “yea, I’ve still not found a home for him”, referencing to Stup. Phillip always laughed because obviously he found his home with me. The last time I remember Stup was on Christmas Eve. I remember he chased the truck as he always enjoyed doing, while Phillip and I left to be with family for Christmas. I remember how jolly he was and how his feet would throw rocks into the windshield. He was such a lightning bolt, who never failed to out run my truck on the red dirt road. He, by no means gave anyone the chance to win. This was without a doubt his favorite game. Christmas morning arrived and at feeding time Stup was nowhere to be found. He goes out often to either the creek or just to venture about. I didn’t think anything of it at the time, but after several days I began to worry. I would ponder with Phillip about where he could be. It is now January second and Stup still hasn’t arrived back to the Shack. I don’t know if I’ll ever see my friend again. However, I pray that he is safe from harm. I’ve been honored to have had such a wonderful friend in Stup during his short stay. He was an amazing creature and one who will forever hold a special place in my heart. I believe he’s finally found his home, whether it be his eternal home with God and Jesus Christ or somewhere else. I’m certain my friend Stup is now resting with peace and happiness.
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