Monday, January 26, 2009

Choosing to Be by Kat Tansey


Product Description
Choosing to Be centers around a Buddha-wise Maine Coon cat named Poohbear Degoonacoon, his kitten muse Catzenbear, and author Kat Tansey as they take us on a journey from the depths of depression to the true freedom of Buddha mind. Tansey has written a magical fable filled with practical information and instruction on Buddhist meditation and how to conquer its five hindrances -- clinging, anger, restlessness, sleepiness, and doubt. This book is a must read for anyone seeking respite from their ordinary mind.


My Thoughts

This was a delightful read. Kat Tansey takes us on a magical journey with her zen master cat Poohbear Decoonacoon. Poohbear and his young cohort Catzenbear are Maine Coon cats.
Written as an anthropomorphic dialogue between the author Kat Tansey and her superior being, Poohbear the Maine Coon cat, the issues and dictates of Buddhism are explored, discussed and practised. Kat was recovering from a long bout of chronic fatigue syndrome and was bogged down in depression...but learning to meditate successfully has helped her come out of her depression and recover her life.
Each chapter starts with a zen quotation and a picture of one of the cats depicting the individual philosophy. You can just feel the wisdom emanating from them.
I absolutely believe that all felines have this innate link to zen fulfillment and they practise mediation everyday. We could learn many lessons from just being around them...I have 4 cats and they bring me so much.

4 comments:

ANovelMenagerie said...

I've given you a little award. It will post Wednesday!

Sheri

MySharonAnne said...

Awh this book looks really neat. My cats are so wonderful.

Anonymous said...

Sounds like an interesting book. Thanks for the review.

-Bobbie

Kat Tansey said...

Thank you Tamara for this lovely review. I read your bio and I am so sorry for your loss. I'm glad you have your four feline friends to be with you on this journey. There is much in the wisdom of the Feline Zen Master that may bring you some small comfort from time to time. Even I re-read it when I am struggling :)

With much gratitude and love,
Kat Tansey