David, That was a very nice essay about your friend. I know another person who highly reveres his dog. It is so much more than just a "pet", to him. His dog is a brother and friend. "He is made of magic," is what he always tells me. That is wonderful to be able to feel that kind of connection with another animal (that is not a human being). Your essay really shows what unity with nature is all about - seeing it as your equal, not as something that is seperate, and below you. I think that you should add a few quotes from the authors we have read, that have discussed unity. Then, you can relate these quotes to how you feel about your animal. You can interpreted what the author is saying to fit your own life.