Perhaps one of the reasons we are so devoted to our dogs is that they help us become who we're supposed to be. "How easy to get lost in a dog's eyes!" write the Monks of New Skete in this new book celebrating our lives with our dogs. Far from getting lost, though, you might very well find what really matters most to you as you read through these soul-stirring meditations and enjoy the heartwarming photographs of dogs doing what they do best--being themselves.
I love talking about dogs and their amazing qualities are the best topics. This small book of quotes and wisdom from the Monks of New Skete is nice, but I unfortunately was a little let down because it was not as amazing as I found another of their books, “I & Dog.” I remember both the pictures and the quotes in that other book being more impactful. In this book, the few quotes they pulled from ancient others were only ok, and the rest of the book had great insights but were more conversational and less concise so perhaps that is why I found them less powerful. There were a two I liked more than others:
‘Dogs possess an indomitable spirit for life that teaches right up to their last day.’
‘Dogs can help themselves: By simply being who they are they cast a spell on our attention that lets them find a place in the center of our universe. As they spontaneously draw different dimensions of ourselves – some that may be hidden from us – they become doorways to deeper self-knowledge and wholeness that renew and refresh us. Being alive to this puts the ordinary responsibilities associated with caring for a dog in a new perspective, one less of inconvenience than of privilege.’
I like the Monks of New Skete and the work they do. This small book of theirs has some good thoughts, but I would recommend their book ‘I & Dog’ more.
Perfect combination of cute dog photos and spiritual wisdom from dog-whispering monks about the role of dogs in our lives. My eyes welled up just a little; Cielo made an uncomfortable gurgle from me hugging her too hard while reading this.
A gentle reminder about how precious the relationship is between dogs and humans. We rely heavily on one another, but WE can learn so much from our canine companions.
Thought-provoking musings on the life of a dog and how it is intertwined with our own. Are we teaching/caring for/and protecting them - or is it the other way around? We certainly can teach our dogs much, but they can probably teach us much more. A good short read for dog lovers.
Sweet book written by MOnks of New Skete, about how devoted dogs are to us and how their beautiful character shows through and makes us better people. The photographs are beautiful and poignant. Anyone who shares their lives with a dog will understand perfectly what is written in this book.