My cat saved my life
by Phillip Schreibman (Dog's BarkPublishing - Toronto)
Reviewed by Nancy Thompson (From "Common Ground" Issue 89 - December 1998)
Although just "a small story in the stories of the world," this book examines depression and joy, the recovery from grief, and our role in creation. It would be an excellent Christmas Day read for those who have experienced a loss this year, and want to read something that bolsters the heart without preaching or giving yet another list of behaviour modification tips.
The author, Phillip writes how the loss of both parents within a short period of time buried him in a pit of grief and despair from which he could not rise. Anyone who has had even a touch of depression will relate to the mystifying difficulty he has with simple maintenance tasks and social interactions.
Here comes Alice! At first only a small stray kitten found in the back alley, Alice grows into a wise, dignified animal.
Jean Houston says that some animals are "bodhisattva pets." Bodhisattva is a Buddhist label for a being that is pure compassion and acceptance. This type of pet loves completely, is loyal and has strong intuitive knowing. Alice was this and more: she was a teacher.
Despite his depressed condition, Phillip had little choice but to pay attention to the insistent kitten, to participate in her sweet games, to give her patting love. He began to attend "Cat School," and at one stage, he took to following her around, napping when she napped, sitting outdoors enjoying nature, stretching, and communicating in a cat ways.
There is a whimsy in this book that is very endearing. The short chapters have such titles as "Alice and the Snake," "Alice and the Bug," "The Big Blue Car," until we finally get to "The Chapter You Can Skip." Phillip, a highly sensitive person, knows well how some of us just cannot face the tragedy of losing yet another friend, albeit fictional.
The depth of this book is, in part, from the author's Jewish faith woven through the philosophical discussion. Examination of the interaction between Creator and creation, and the role and duty of humans, add a substance to make this more than just a story.
Available at the National Library
