Diffusions :: Two Dogs And A Parrot

“This is a book about the role of animal companions in the development of our own spiritual lives. It is written for those who have pets and already understand that. It is also written for those who do not have pets and wonder why so many people do. It is a book about reestablishing the human-animal relationships Creation meant us to have.”

— From the Introduction of Two Dogs And A Parrot

This short, three-week book discussion will explore Joan Chittister’s book Two Dogs And A Parrot: What Our Animal Friends Can Teach Us About Life. In this weekly journey, our group will meet via 1 1/2 hour Zoom sessions, Thursdays, 6-7:30 pm (Pacific) 9-10:30 pm (Eastern), to share thoughts and impressions of each chapter. Themes include acceptance, self-knowledge, purpose, balance, rejection, woundedness, presence, diversity, play, love, adventure, and respect.

Discussion prompts will be provided on Tuesdays for the week’s discussion. Each meeting will involve a brief prayer/reflection, a review of ground rules, opportunities to share thoughts from the previous week, a tie to the Rule of St. Benedict, and a facilitated group discussion.

Commitment to the weekly reading is essential as is a commitment to attending and sharing in the weekly Zoom sessions. This program is a discussion rather than a lecture. The quality comes from your willingness to participate in the conversation.

Note: Please obtain a copy of Two Dogs And A Parrot: What Our Animal Friends Can Teach Us About Life by Joan Chittister before we begin discussing the first dog: The Irish Setter – Danny on March 12.

Diffusions offers online programs to further opportunities for prayer, learning, community, and spiritual growth from a Benedictine perspective. We look forward to bringing Wisdom from the Center to you, wherever you are.