We met at Nancy French's to discuss The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein. After general socializing, we discussed the book a bit, but focused mostly on our own experiences with the deaths of loved ones. This was mostly because the book opens with Enzo looking forward to the end of his life because he believes he will be reborn as a human. Also, Enzo's reflection on his life included Eve's illness and her subsequent death. Those attending included Christe Berth, Ellen Bowes, Nancy French, Julie Howard, Linda Jenkins, Annie Larkin, Judy Lee, and Jo Smith.
Annie read a couple of her favorite quotes. One was: "People speak of a will to live. They rarely speak of a will to die. Because people are afraid of death. Death is dark and unknown and frightening. But not for me. It is not the end." We did think that there is a point when a person is nearing the end of their life that a "switch is thrown" and one no longer fears death.
Some felt that the author did such a great job of writing from the dog's perspective that they almost felt like the dog had actually written the book. Although some didn't like the story itself, everyone seemed to be intrigued by Enzo the philosopher. There was a repeated saying throughout the book that came from a French race car driver. "That which we manifest is before us." Basically meaning that our behavior and thoughts align with our expectations. Each thought you have, each action you make, draws in positive or negative energy. If you see yourself as having complete control over your own destiny, you will act and think and behave in a way that creates the outcome you desire. If you are fearful, you will see everything around you as a possible obstacle.
After Linda suggested it, we selected Breaking Free, edited by Marilyn Sewell for our June book.
We also chose our July book, The Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline which was suggested by Grace.
Next meeting:
Location: Linda Jenkins home
Date: Thursday, June 12, 2014
Time: 6:30 pm
