For generations, teddy bears have sat quietly and listened while people confided their dreams and sorrows. In Teddy Bear Philosophy, the bears talk back Who would have imagined that teddies have thoughts of their own to share? And not simply random musings, but deep wisdom, drawn from their pure hearts, loving spirits, and decades of experience. A thoughtful reading of Teddy Bear Philosophy's aphorisms and short essays reveals that it is simply profound. For example: -- Never underestimate the benefits of being a good listener. -- When life knocks the stuffing out of you, be sure to put it back in. -- There's no such thing as too many hugs.Accompanied by candid black-and-white photographs of teddy bears and people in their everyday lives, Teddy Bear Philosophy is a book that will charm readers of all ages and persuasions. One needn't be an avowed teddy bear lover to embrace Teddy Bear Philosophy. As one teddy bear philosopher notes: He who says he has no need of a bear is the person who needs one most Teddy bears have always been an important part of author Susan Schwartz's life, but they took on an especially important role when Schwartz faced serious surgery. In her search for a bear that would comfort her during a long recuperation, she found not one, but two teddies -- Roman and Gabriel -- who proved to be both loving and loquacious. They provided the inspiration for this book.