Thank you, Stanley. You reminded me how to approach today when I was reading the book author and psychotherapist Jennifer Freed wrote with you.  Freed just published "Lessons from Stanley the Cat, Nine Lives of Everyday Wisdom" (Penguin), a joyful and zen-ful tribute to a cat who was her companion for nearly 20 years and taught her about the qualities and traits that embody the very best nature in cats (and people). Freed starts off by honoring her mother in the front of the book" To my mother, Nancy Lee, who taught me to deeply love the beyond-human world.'' Lots of gratitude and grace here.  "Wake up each morning with a song in your heart. Sing out when you first see someone you know." (In the chapter You and Yourself)  Stanley, Freed writes, "continues to be my greatest teacher, as I believe his lessons are timeless. Some people might say I am twisted for giving a cat such status and respect, but one thing years of practicing and teaching psychotherapy have taught me: you cannot judge a living master by his cover, and humans often overrate their importance on Earth.''  Another lesson from Stanley, in which the illustrator has drawn a huge human foot descending on a cat tail and a toddler tormenting a cat with toys: "Forgive easily when someone has hurt you accidentally, or even intentionally. The next moment is not in the past." (In the chapter You and Others)  The book is whimsically illustrated by dozens of drawings by Swedish illustrator and journalist Tone Gellerstedt.  Gellerstedt's drawing of Stanley falling sideways from the heavens is followed by this lesson: "Landing on your feet is the best option when trying leaps beyond your reach.'' (In the chapter, Healthy Habits). Freed, oops Stanley, elaborates "Anyone can make a flying leap, but it takes someone with real panache to make a smooth landing or recover gracefully from a wipeout.''  And this lesson seems fitting for a weekend blog post: "Take time out of your day to take time out of your day" (Again from Healthy Habits). Stanley muses: Rub your body parts where they feel sore from working or playing. Lean back and breathe in with long deep breaths. Exhale with little sounds of relief.''  You can follow his adventures online and share with the author and illustrator what your pets have taught you (and maybe win $1,000). Stanley has his very own website.  Thanks for the lessons with laughter, Stanley. You just landed on my meditation/prayer shelf.  READERS: Another new book (maybe more for dog lovers) worth checking out? Deepak Chopra and his son combined on "Walking Wisdom.'' It's about how walking the dog can help you connect with them, each other and the moment.  To report corrections and clarifications, contact Standards Editor  . For publication consideration in the newspaper, send comments to  . Include name, phone number, city and state for verification. To view our corrections, go to
Cat book full of wisdom and joy: 'Lessons from Stanley'  - Paw Print Post: A community for Dog, Cat, and Pet Owners - USATODAY.com