Zen Cat 2010 Calendar

2010 Wall Calendar

　　The teachings of the Zen Cat are born in the awakening of awareness and the oneness of existence. They demonstrate love that is expressed in the peace, joy, and happiness that unfold in our hearts as we embrace the sacredness, perfection, and beauty of all life.

　　In the Zen Master own words, here is the story of the Zen Cat, as it happened: "While I was quietly reading the Lotus Sutra (teachings of the Buddha), the Original Zen Cat, Miss Kitty, climbed up onto my lap. As I continued to read, I became aware that her mind and mine became one. She wanted me to read aloud to her. So I did. There she sat in intent meditation focused on the teaching as I read. Her appreciation and obvious understanding opened my own mind and heart to the oneness that exists, connecting all living beings in the gentle love and compassion that is in every precious moment. It is my hope that the meditations of the Zen Cat will also bring awareness to all sentient beings."

　　Zen Cat is a meditation in art and words on the sacredness and interconnectedness of all life. Artist and author Nicholas Kirsten-Honshin uses painting, printmaking and poetry to communicate a message from the pure heart of the universe - reflected in the grace and humble honor of his painter's name "Honshin" which means "original mind" or "pure heart."