Having decades with dogs has taught me a thing or two. When they've been MIA, for example, I have such angst. I mean, SUCH angst. When I see them again, I breathe the best breath. Let this help us understand Genesis 46:30 which reads, "Finally, Jacob had said to Joseph, 'Now I am ready to die, since I have seen your face again and know you are still alive.'"
Having lost what we value most only to have it come back to us again makes life beyond full. For decades, Jacob thought Joseph was dead. Their tender reunion enables us to see and value all reunions which leads to giving thanks to our God who desires that we gather not pull apart.