I lost my best friend yesterday. Indulge me for a moment and allow me to tell you about him and why he was my best friend:

First, he was with me for almost 16 years. He moved with me and lived
with me in 5 different places in 3 different states. He often traveled
with me, but when he couldn't, he greeted me enthusiastically when I
came home. He made me feel better when I was down without saying a word,
and was a great listener whether I was bloviating, pontificating,
preaching or frankly just bitching. He shared my food with me and in
fact I often cooked extra because I know he liked what I was making
(although in reality, he liked anything). He rarely complained and often
was able to second guess what I was thinking. We came to understand
each others needs with just a look or a gesture. He often slept with me
(careful what you're thinking) although he had his own bed, and laid
next to me on the couch watching a good movie. Lastly, and most
importantly, he taught me about unconditional love. This best friend was
my dog Speedo. For some of you, this may seem like over-reactive
drivel, but for those who love dogs, well, you get it. My best friend
will be missed.