Guardians of Being: Spiritual Teachings from Our Dogs and Cats Paperback – Picture Book, November 29, 2011

Eckhart Tolle wrote the enlightening books (which I also highly recommend); "The Power of Now" and "A New Earth." These books had such a profound effect on me that I went searching for a way to share this insight with my 9 year old son. How do I teach my children this most important information that they could ever learn? "Guardians of Being" takes an abstract concept and brings it to life in this adorably animated book. Tolle's teachings are simplified to perfection through excerpts such as "Just watching an animal closely, can take you out of your mind and bring you into the present moment, which is where the animal lives all the time - surrendered to life." And, "The vital function that pets fulfill in this world hasn't been fully recognized. They keep millions of people sane." And one of my favorites; " I have lived with many Zen masters, all of them cats."In this book there is a brilliant tool for teaching meditation to children (actually, I use it myself sometimes): "Close your eyes and say to yourself: "I wonder what my next thought is going to be." Then become as alert as a cat watching a mouse hole. You may find that, as long as you are absolutely alert, the next thought does not arise...."The final pages of this book brought me to tears. I won't spoil the surprise.My son and I continue to read and talk about this book together. In my son's words; "It's spiritual and funny at the same time. I really like it.""Guardians of Being" is one of the most enjoyed and most valuable books on my children's bookcase. Two more that I highly recommend are "Zen Shorts" and "The Three Questions, Based on a story by Leo Tolstoy," both by Jon J Muth.

There are any number of 'cute' books out there that speak of Buddhist ways, of "living in the moment," etc. And I've been gifted with a few as people know I love animals and animals can be the best teachers in such matters. But this book enlightens, is more 'real' than those that use other animals, or animals talking to each other, and it reminds me of all that's good about my non-human companions and all that they have to show me. This is primarily the dog's wisdom, and cats too. And anyone who has either or both can appreciate the truth of what is being shown. The drawings are wonderful and so complement the wisdom reflected in the words. It's one of my 'coffee table' books because it eases one's mind as one reads it - and always prompts a steady smile throughout, from cover to cover.

This book is absolutely inspiring and encouraging. It is written simply and effortless to read. It can be shared with children and adults alike. It reinforces Tolle's teaching about living in the present moment and just being.... it uses the example of dogs and cats to teach us about just being.... it is delightfully brilliant and relaxing. It is a great piece of work. I keep it on the coffee table to often refer to and enjoy and to have out for others to enjoy as it is effortless quick reading, yet the depth is indescribable. I purchased many to give as gifts... all have deeply enjoyed and have been touched. This book is a must have... a gem... a necessity to our emotional health just as these precious animals are our guardians of us just being. Illustrations... just right...simple yet powerful.Enjoy!!!

I love the Mutts comic strip that appears in some newspapers. It has loving characters (humans, animals, birds, insects) and good interactions between different species. This book combines the sweet love of Mutts with Zen philosophy of living in the moment. The text is brief. The illustrations made me smile and feel good.I think I will read this once a week. It will be good for my soul.When my son was a child, before he could read on his own, he used to want several books, his favorites, read to him every day. His special favorites would need to be read more than once a day. Most people do not re-read books every day. However, due to my son, I learned to appreciate how good it could be to read or listen to a book you love often. It never pales. Sometimes, one gets new insights. My son is grown up now. I miss reading together.

Eckart Tolle is an amazing writer. His other books are remarkable, so helpful. But this book is precious and captivating. It captures that magic dogs and cats can bring to our lives. In his writing, I see my own dog's joyful run, her crazy abandonment as she chases her tail, her insatiable curiosity in every moment and her absolute trust and unconditional love. "Guardians of Being" beautifully captures the loving, spiritual bond we share with our pets. It explores the lessons our pets offer us and,how through them, we can experience Oneness with Being. This book makes me laugh, cry, smile .... it makes me feel good and both "Ah Ha's" as well as "Awe-es"! It reminds me of the miracles these precious beings bring to our lives.

Truth is simple, beautiful and elegant and so is this book. Bring your awareness to the text and illustrations and let stillness unfold. Perfect when you need a quick reminder ( and there happens to be no dogs or cats around) and since it is short enough you can read over and over again. Also perfect as a gift for someone you care about and who also might need a quick reminder. Highly recommended!