In a world gone bad, a bear - even a bear standing on its head - is a comforting, uncomplicated, dependable hunk of sanity.

A dog wakens your heart to joy and companionship.

If there is a heaven, it's certain our animals are to be there. Their lives become so interwoven with our own, it would take more than an archangel to detangle them.

A cat likes to hear you calling him. He sits in a bush a yard from your shoes - and listens.

Medicines may be necessary. Flowers lift the heart. But your smile is the best restorative of all.

We expect too much at Christmas. It's got to be magical. It's got to go right. Feasting. Fun. The perfect present. All that anticipation. Take it easy. Love's the thing. The rest is tinsel.

Integrity rings like fine glass. True, clear, and reassuring.