Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest

Hope. Love. Home. Sanctuary

in memory of Jody Chimpanzee on her birthday

by Diana

Tobin sponsored today in honor of Jody’s birthday celebration prior to us losing Jody just two weeks ago. Ever thoughtful, Tobin sent in a new message to share on this celebratory but also somber day,

Dear Friends of our beloved Jody:

As was the tradition at the CSNW, Jody’s birthday was celebrated every year on Mother’s Day. Those of us who loved her and rejoiced in her very being will continue to do so, in our hearts, minds, and souls. As we grieve, let us remember the look of joy on her beautifully expressive face, whether ascending the towers on Young’s Hill or in foraging the bounty of her land. Let us remember her maternal devotion to Negra, Annie, Missy, Foxie, Jamie, and Burrito. Taken from her mother in infancy, and deprived of nurturing the children she conceived, Jody became the den mother to her troop of orphans.

In my original statement for Jody’s birthday, I had written an open letter addressed to her. I told her that I hoped that the lilacs would be in bloom for her birthday, and I told her that I was so pleased when, somehow, she would appear in my dreams.

As I have read the many messages in the comments section of the Sanctuary website, I have been moved by the many words of condolence to Jody’s survivors and caregivers. One message especially holds meaning to me: “May her memory be blessed.”

Surely our memories of Jody are blessed, as we who love her were blessed by her presence in our lives.

And when I read of that Hebrew blessing, I thought of Jody and the words of a poem, also written in Hebrew:

For Thou, the Giver of Life,
created me in my inmost being;
Thou created me together
in my mother’s womb

Where can I go from Thy Spirit?

Our beloved Jody, your memory is blessed.

– Tobin Kerry –

 

 

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Comments

  2. Kathleen says

    Thank you, Tobin, for sharing your sentiment and poem. And thank you, Diana, for these photos of Jody enjoying her lilacs.

    Happy birthday Jody, wherever you are.

  4. Carol Sceniak says

    more tears today while reading Tobin’s beautiful letter to Jo.I can’t say more other than I loved her too?:disappointed_relieved::pray:I believe St.Francis will walk hand in hand with her now.

  5. Joann says

    “Until one loves an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened”.

    –Anatole France–

    • Linda says

      Joann that is so true and every responsible animal owner knows that and has experienced unconditional love from their animal. Jody was lucky enough to be loved by many and she enriched and awakened many souls. Thank you for posting that.

  7. June Jones says

    Another beautiful post, which had me in tears again. I’m glad Jody is home where she may rest in peace?

      • Marie says

        Here it comes June:heartpulse::heartpulse::heartpulse::heartpulse::heartpulse::heartpulse::heartpulse::heartpulse::heartpulse::heartpulse:

  8. Marie says

    Sweet Tribute Tobin….Yes a Beautiful Spirit ……..Amazing how they can take away the pressures of life … just by watching their antics or their quiet times……their presence can smooth the rough edges and soothe the soul …..it Truly is….. the simple things….. that bring us Joy…Jody ,You are with us in Spirit and now a Spirit you are..still watching over your Family …….FOREVER:heartpulse: LOVED:rose::tulip::bouquet::hugging:

  9. Sandie Allaway says

    Thank you Tobin for your beautiful words of rememberance and peace.:revolving_hearts:

  10. Judy says

    Beautiful tribute to a beautiful girl/woman/mother/friend and love. Thank you Tobin.