Lessons From My Best Friend, Otto

I recently had to say goodbye to Otto. He was my best friend for almost thirteen years, standing by my side through every peak and valley of my life.

While this is a season of profound grief, I am overwhelmed by a sense of gratitude for the life he lived and the peace he eventually found. I miss him deeply, but I am forever changed by the years we shared.

A Masterclass in Love

Otto was the living embodiment of unconditional love. To me, he was like a Bodhisattva—someone who stayed on this planet simply to love and care for the people around him. I learned more from his example than from any book or lecture. He supported dozens of people throughout his life, offering his presence and his heart without ever asking for a single thing in return. He taught me that the highest form of “being” is simply showing up for others.

A Pillar of the Community

Otto was easily the most popular figure in our neighborhood. In his final days, a steady stream of friends and neighbors came to the house just to sit with him and honor his impact. He was a staple in my men’s group circles; even when I couldn’t make it, Otto was there. He possessed a grounding, calming energy that helped people navigate their own grief and struggles. He didn’t need words to heal; he just needed to be there.

The Final Ceremony

When the time came to say goodbye, we held a beautiful ceremony at home, surrounded by family and our close friend who had looked after his health for years. We wrapped him in a sacred shroud I had brought back from the Himalayas in India.

We laid him to rest on a stunning piece of protected land (where my son and Otto spent a night at this specific spot with Otto, during his first solo overnight). It was exactly the way I would want to go: surrounded by the people I love, tucked into the heart of nature, and draped in peace.

A Legacy of Joy

Losing someone this close is never easy, but seeing the peace on Otto’s face at the end was a gift. He is no longer suffering, and I no longer have to carry the heavy weight of worry for his health. His passing reminded me that life is fleeting, and the only thing that truly stays behind is the impact we have on others.

The power of community and connection has shaped my entire journey. I explore this further in Team Building & cityHUNT.

Even in his final days, Otto kept his mischievous spirit. He actually managed to sneak out of the house for one last solo walk around the block, living life on his own terms until the very last moment.

Take a moment today to appreciate the companions in your life who offer you love without conditions. Whether they walk on two legs or four, their time with us is a miracle.

Rest in peace, Otto. Run free, my sweet boy. I’ll see you at the Rainbow Bridge.