Having decided to dedicate this week’s entries to quotes from the Art of Racing in The Rain AND this being Vegan Feast Thursday, I thought I would share with those that have not read the book an important fact. This book was written not in first “person,” but instead in first “dog.” I found it amazingly comforting and thought provoking to read things from a dog’s perspective. If you have been reading all week, you already know that it was my dear friend Fredda, who turned me on to this fabulous book, and sadly, along with the rest of the world, I lost Fredda this week when she lost her UNBELIEVABLY courageous battle with AML (leukemia). This week I am paying tribute to her life, through quotes from the book.
In this story, the main character, Enzo (the dog) teaches us all incredible life lessons. This morning I want to share a quote that will give us all pause to think about how we converse. I know that rereading this quote, and sharing it, I am going to commit to work extra hard on being a better listener. I think we can all relate to what Enzo expresses. If you haven’t read the book, there is a thread that runs through it that suggests really good dogs come back as people. I know I will always stop and look a little longer every time I see a Harley…I may or may not ever see my beautiful Blaze upon one, but I will smile every time I see (and hear) one and know he is always in my heart, as is my special friend, Fredda.
would be totally lost, and only because you had to tell me all about Pele. Learn to listen”
ENZO via Garth Stein, The Art of Racing in the Rain
To all my animal loving friends, if you haven’t read this book, I highly recommend it. As for Fredda, she was a cat lady. She had several of her own and spent a lot of time volunteering at a local, no kill, cat rescue. For those that knew her and want to send a donation, her family has asked that you send it to FELINE FRIENDS at 165 NE 2nd Ave, Deerfield Beach, FL 33441. If you are reading this blog via FaceBook and want more info about Fredda, or anything peace, fitness, and vegan living, please log in @ peaceandfitness.com to find my full site.
Though I lost a friend, I find myself reconnecting with some old ones, and that is quite a gift. Additionally, seeing new babies born into the world reminds me of the circle of life.
Tonight I am off with my special friend, Rita, to see Deepak Chopra. So excited and certain I will have much to share after listening to his incredible wisdom.
As I do every Thursday, I ask you to consider swapping out some animal protein at a meal or 2 today, and remembering that what’s good for the planet and the animals, is also really good for you!