The Kids Of Bryant Elementary Remember Ricky

I’m pretty sure I’ve mentioned that last fall I started an after-school writing club for students at Bryant Elementary School in Bridgeport.  We’ve been meeting every Thursday since then, and some of the kids’ work appears on our blog, Is It Friday Yet?  I’ve brought Ricky in to club meetings from time to time, and the kids have become pretty attached to him — and when I had to tell them that Ricky had died, there were plenty of gasps, sad faces, and tears.  Here are some excerpts of what the kids wrote in Ricky’s memory:

Don’t be sad, he’s in the dog house in the sky.  Ricky was a good dog even though he eats a lot.  He’s a cute dog, and a hungry dog.  Bye, Ricky.  — D.I.

I didn’t meet you but I saw you in a picture.  You’re so cute.  I’m very sad that you died and I hope you’re very happy in heaven.  Rest in peace.  — E.J.

I know that I haven’t known you for that long, but you were a very cute dog.  You’ve always been in a food rage, even at your old age (in human years).  I’m sure you’ve had your glorious days, and your lazy ones too.  Hey, I wonder if you’re hungry right now.  Anyways, someone told me when a dog dies it is also reborn and has a happy life with another family, and I hope the same thing happens to you.  I actually heard it in a movie.  — M.O.

You were a good dog because you made people laugh and feel at home.  At first I was scared of you and then I got to know you, Ricky.  You felt like my dog that I had before he died.  — B.D.

I’m really sorry for your loss.  I honestly just went through a horrible loss myself.  You just have to remember that life goes on, and that the one you love is in a better place now.  — S.P.

Even though I never met you, I still feel sad about your death.  When I found out about your death I felt like crying.  I’ve heard a lot about you, and have seen a lot of pictures of you, and you seem like the awesomest and sweetest dog I have ever heard about.  I had a pet fish once and I named it Kenny.  When he died I didn’t really feel that sad since I couldn’t really read his emotions and it seemed like he never really liked me, but when I found out you were dying I was very shocked.  I’ll pray for you.  — I.S.

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