Joan Chittister is a Benedictine sister, the author of more than 50 books, and the Executive Director of Benetvision, a resource and research center for contemporary spirituality. She is profiled as one of S&P's Living Spiritual Teachers and is a frequent teacher of our e-courses.
In this spunky and laid-back work, Chittister affirms the important role of animals as spiritual teachers. With many teaching stories, she shares her personal experiences with Danny, an Irish setter; Duffy, a Golden Retriever; and Lady, a parrot. These three animal companions lift Chittister's spirits with their playfulness, energy, and affection. You can almost see in your mind's eye, the high esteem the animals have for their caretaker.
Chittister calls these creatures recipients of the greatest liberation movement of this century. With elan, she explores 21 qualities which animate our intimate relationships with animals including play, adventure, purpose, balance, empathy, and diversity. Chittister makes a good case for respecting our animal companions and holding them in the highest esteem.
