John and Mary Rueckert's Heart O'Gold Shetland Sheepdogs


			Dear Mary, I often feel guilty that I don't express my feelings for you more often. It seems that, like most people, our current lifestyle is so full that real thought and effort are required to set aside time to do the right things for the relationship. This web site project is just the most recent in as series of projects that I have undertaken. Through them all you have been supportive and understanding. I did not anticipate the size of this project or the amount of time and effort it would take, but at least in a small way, the dedication of this web page to you will acknowledge my appreciation of your patience. We have been married for 16 years and together for 20 years. Since we are both hard headed we have had our share of Titanic battles, but through it all we have grown to the level of trust that is so important for a relationship to survive. There is no one else in my life that I share more with, or trust more than you. When I am away I miss you, but I never worry about the house or dogs because I know you are reliable and take care of things. You are my best friend and a fun person to be with. You are not an easy person to get to know. On top of this you are not particularly good at expressing for feelings. Because of this it is tough for most people to see the real Mary. This is a shame because if they took the time and made the effort they would find a rare person to befriend. You are honest, caring, and loyal. Although surface reactions are sometimes emotional and abrasive, the underlying instinct and intentions are usually good and correct. I am amazed more and more by your ability to see things in people before I do. Most people do not know that you are adopted, or the effects that your strange family life had on your developmental years. When I think back to the defense mechanisms that you had developed to survive, I am amazed. There is a strength there that few people possess. I am truly sorry that the first 30 years of your life were so unfair. We have worked hard, you and I, to develop a life where you can feel safe and start to let the barriers down. I guess this is why I get so upset with abusive, unethical people. I feel they jeopardize your faith in me. I know that sometimes it seems that no one can be trusted, but there are some good people in the world too. I want you to know that I am proud of the progress you have made in trusting me and I would never do anything to hurt that. Back in 1991, when we went through our 'life style' change, you supported me the entire time. I guess I am more of a risk taker than most. The majority of my decisions are successful, but like most people, sometimes I am wrong. The thing I will always remember about 1991 is not the stress and anxiety, but the fact that we worked through it together and never once did I feel like you blamed me for it. This to me was a great gesture of your faith in me and is something I will always appreciate and remember. Don't sell yourself short in other areas either. Besides being a great homemaker and cook, you have contributed to our lifestyle through the income you have earned throughout our relationship. This persistence has contributed to our ability to build the house and kennels, and to promote the dogs. Something that is echoed throughout these pages is the pure nature of dogs, and in particular Shelties. It is easy for those reading this to see why we love them so much. Beyond the normal man/dog bond is our need to trust without doubt. The dogs give us this and more. They have never let us down. Through them we have a common interest. We both find fulfillment in protecting those that give us so much love. In you I see the realization that here you can let go. Here you can trust. We both know that the dogs are always there and that they will never betray us. It is nice to have such a bond. We have learned so much over our years with each other and with the dogs. I don't think most of our dog acquaintances realize your eye for Shelties. But I have heard your evaluation of movement at ringside and I have seen your ability to understand situations. We have talked through many issues together and I know that you not only understand the dog world, but you have the ethics to make the tough decisions with me. This is rare among dog people and I am proud to have you as my partner in this as well. All in all, we have come a long way. Our relationship is based on hard work and trust. We are best friends as well as partners. I hope with all my heart that you have reached a level of comfort and trust in your life, which will bring us both, continued happiness together for many years to come. I know I don't say it enough, but I love you with all my heart! I am proud of you and want the world to know how lucky I am to call you my wife. Your Loving Husband, John
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