Book ~ "The Radical Practice of Loving Everyone: A Four-Legged Approach to Enlightenment" (2013) Michael J. Chase

From Goodreads ~ Is "loving everyone" really possible, as the title of Michael J. Chase’s book suggests? 

The answer may surprise you, as he chronicles his journey toward enlightenment, gaining insight from a very unlikely source - a four-legged guru named Mollie, who happens to be the most lovable yet mischievous dog in the world. 

In his attempt to understand her ability to unconditionally love all, Chase begins to see the world through his best friend’s eyes, especially during their morning walks. Mollie’s hilarious antics and maddening behavior ultimately lead to profound insights learned at the other end of the leash. 

Written with heart and sidesplitting humor, this one-of-a-kind true story of friendship and a divine albeit outrageous dog delivers on its promise to reveal a pathway toward enlightenment ... and brings each of us one step closer to loving everyone.

This book caught my eye because there was a dog on the cover ... I love dogs!  Plus it had a good message I wanted to read more about ... loving everyone using a four-legged approach to enlightenment.

In 2007, the author ended a career as a professional photographer in search for the meaning of life.  He created The Kindness Center and became an inspirational speaker.  He practices what he preaches for sure!

He and his wife, Cara, adopted Mollie, a standard poodle, from a puppy mill.  It was fun to read about the escapades of Mollie who sounds like quite a dog with a lot of personality (it made me miss having a dog).  It was interesting to read about how Mollie's antics teaches the author life lessons.  This is from the chapter entitled "A Deeper Understanding" ...

She sees each day as an exciting new adventure that's filled with endless opportunities.  Mollie has no interest whatsoever in reliving her past.  She got over it, moved on, and has chosen to embrace the here-and-now.  And because there are walks to take, people to kiss, cats to chase, and the bliss of afternoon naps, why be anything but happy?  My dog really gets it:  each moment of life is a gift.

Everyone has a story to tell.  But for some, their personal history actually becomes a leash that holds them back from experiencing life to the fullest.  Playing the victim card will never allow them to love unconditionally or achieve enlightenment.

So true, right?

I liked the writing style.  It was funny and honest with real-life stories.  I enjoyed this book and would recommend it.