Thinking Deep Thoughts About Teddy Bears – Part 2

So what do we find so irresistible about these little creatures? Is it the exercise of imagination, the warmth of love, the expression of a primitive awareness of our connection with all living beings?

Sometimes it doesn’t even have to be an actual toy—the irrepressible imagination of children can make everyday objects into beloved animals. One of my favorite children’s movies is the unforgettable Russian puppet animated short “Vareshka” from 1967. Not a word is spoken, but you catch every emotion and can’t help cheering for the little heroine to get her wish:

This argues for the exercise of imagination.

But there’s also the undeniable awareness of our connection with other animals. Our hearts were captured by Alex the parrot and by Koko the gorilla, both learning how to speak directly to us. Aren’t we acknowledging our connection we say one of our pets “thinks he’s a person?”

My best friend’s dog used to sit for hours in the driver’s seat of her car when it was parked in the driveway. You could almost see him wondering why the car wouldn’t start: what magic did the people have that made the car start when THEY sat in that same seat?

So it seems like all these things– imagination, love, and connection–form the foundation of the magnetism that draws us to make soft toys and feel so close to them.

When you’re in the mood to luxuriate in inspirational imagery on these topics, check out the lovely esthetic of Path and Puddle, “an art blog inspired by animals.” Here’s a screenshot of the Path and Puddle Pinterest stream:

Enjoy your animal-inspired adventure!