Beyond Time: The Footprints of Loyalty in Hachiko and Ireng

In timeless tales of loyalty and courage, two uncommon heroes, Hachiko and Ki Pasung Grigis, take us on an extraordinary journey across time and culture. In the bustling era of the 1920s, Professor Hidesaburo Ueno of Tokyo University began his quest in the city of Odate, Japan, to find an Akita Inu dog that would become his true companion. Amidst his search, destiny led him to a dog later named Hachiko, a loyal creature that would script an unforgettable story.

Hachiko, derived from the word "hachi" meaning eight, became Professor Ueno's faithful friend for the price of 30 yen. Upon arriving home, a harmonious bond formed. Hachiko became a devoted companion, escorting Professor Ueno to Shibuya Station every day and patiently waiting after a day of teaching. This ritual became an inseparable pillar of their lives.

However, tragedy struck on May 21, 1925, when Professor Ueno passed away from a stroke while lecturing. Unaware of his master's departure, Hachiko continued faithfully waiting in front of the station every day. Three years later, during the renovation of Shibuya Station in 1932, Hachiko remained steadfast near the station, sleeping around the shops, awaiting a master who would never return.

His story transcends various aspects of life. Despite being adopted by those who respected him, fate had other plans. Through a life journey filled with challenges, Hachiko transformed into an icon of loyalty. On March 8, 1935, Hachiko was found dead near the Inari Bridge, Shibuya, due to cancer and filarial infection. Ten years spent faithfully waiting made Hachiko the most loyal dog in history.

Hachiko continues to inspire, not only through his touching life story but also in the form of honors from the Japanese government. His story is included in a moral education book for second-grade students in Japan titled "On o Wasureruna" (1937), which means "do not forget kindness." Films like "Hachiko Monogatari" (1987), "Densetsu no Akitaken Hachi" (2006), and "Hachiko: A Dog’s Story" (2009) also commemorate this legendary dog's loyalty. The memorial statue of Hachiko at Shibuya and Odate Stations, as well as the joint statue with Professor Ueno near Tokyo University, stand as silent witnesses to eternal loyalty.

Moving to the island of Bali, we find the story of loyalty and devotion held by Ireng, the dog of Ki Pasung Gerigis, opening a window into the deep dimensions of the relationship between humans and animals. Ireng not only provides physical presence but becomes a loyal friend bringing emotional warmth into Ki Pasung Gerigis's daily life.

When Ki Pasung Gerigis faces challenges or sadness, Ireng seems to possess extraordinary emotional sensitivity. This dog can read his owner's feelings very well, offering support without words. Ireng's existence is not just that of a pet but a companion always ready to listen and comfort.

Ireng's loyalty is also reflected in its faithfulness in all conditions. In hardship or joy, Ireng remains by Ki Pasung Gerigis's side, even when Ki Pasung Gerigis has passed away, Ireng disappears without a trace. Its presence provides a sense of security and certainty, creating a bond that is difficult to explain in words alone. This illustrates that a dog's loyalty is not limited by conditions or time but becomes a constant in everyday life.

More than just a pet, Ireng becomes a life companion that adds deep meaning to Ki Pasung Gerigis's journey. This story creates a stirring narrative about the extraordinary allure of the relationship between humans and animals, where Ireng's loyalty not only reflects the occurrence of an emotional connection between two different species but also serves as a symbol of the unity of souls in every living being.

The stories of Hachiko and Ireng, now embedded in the footprints of human civilization, seem to want to impart a lesson so valuable to humanity about the importance of upholding the values of loyalty and moral nobility. The memorial statues of Hachiko at Shibuya and Odate Stations, as well as the story of Ireng disappearing when Ki Pasung Grigis has passed away, will be an unforgettable source of inspiration for humans that the true power of love, loyalty, and genuine sacrifice, which will never erode with time and ages, can only grow in humility and simplicity. Complexity will only render all of it seemingly meaningless.

(Source: Doglet)