Character Creation

The Tao of Winnie the Pooh *Tao (pronounced Dow) means “The Path” (to happiness)

The Tao of Winnie the Pooh There are three secrets to being happy: *COMPASSION (care for others) *HUMILITY (being down-to-earth) *MODERATION (enjoy everything in small amounts, but don’t go crazy!)

The Tao of Winnie the Pooh LAO SAYS: *Happiness is finding balance… in yourself and nature. *Finding joy and laughter in everyday moments is the key. *Let go of stress and worry and forget about things that make you sad.

The Tao of Winnie the Pooh Here are some quotes from Pooh that match up perfectly with the teachings of Lao, who probably lived in China about 6 years before the birth of Jesus.

"Rabbit's clever," said Pooh thoughtfully. "Yes," said Piglet. "Rabbit's clever." "And he has Brain." "Yes," said Piglet, "Rabbit has Brain." There was a long silence. "I suppose," said Pooh, "that that's why he never understands anything."

"Lot's of people talk to animals," said Pooh. "Maybe, but..." "Not very many listen, though," he said. "That's the problem," he added.

Roo and Tigger were walking along the forest one morning, and Tigger was talking about all the things that Tiggers can do.... "I can swim," said Roo. "I fell into the river, and I swimmed. Can Tiggers swim?" "Of course they can. Tiggers can do everything.“ "Can they climb trees better than Pooh?" asked Roo, stopping under the tallest Pine Tree, and looking up at it. "Climbing trees is what they do best," said Tigger. "Much better than Poohs." And the next thing they knew, they were stuck in the tallest pine tree.

Each character from the 100 Acre Woods is a symbol of Taoist philosophy Each has a personality or character traits that demonstrate one of the teachings of Taoism. Taoism talks about keeping things natural, uncomplicated, and simple... Just like our favorite bear. Taoism says, “Don’t think or plan or do, just BE!” "While Eeyore frets and Piglet hesitates... and Rabbit calculates... and Owl pontificates...Pooh just is."

 As we go through each of the characters, write down the characteristics of each that you think best represent you. Be sure to write down both who the character is and what about that character represents you.  Once we finish going through each of the characters, you will be required to “create your own Pooh”  For example, if you identify with Pooh in that you are somewhat clueless, maybe a little bit of an air head, then you would draw the head of Pooh. If you are like Piglet and need multiple pats on the back, then you might draw the body of Piglet. If you are energetic and always active, you might draw the tail of tigger.

 Once you finish drawing and coloring your Pooh character, you will need to write at least half a page explaining your drawing. This can be written on the back of your image or a separate sheet of paper. Treat this as you would a journal.

 Pooh is kind of clueless, maybe a bit of an airhead.  Pooh is almost always happy.  Pooh wanders through life happily.  He has no goals, but no disappointments  Pooh is looking for a simple pleasure.  Cake, balloons and a full belly are the key to happiness.

Piglet is a loyal friend. Piglet is never the center of attention. Piglet thinks of other people’s feelings first. Piglet needs a lot of pats on the back. Piglet wants to please and get approval. Piglet prefers one good friend to a group. Piglet worries.

Tigger is energetic, physical, and fun! Tigger is impulsive (doesn’t think before he acts), and is likely to get into trouble. Tigger is loud and never sits still. Tigger is emotional and often flies into a rage or gets upset, but gets over it quickly. Tigger likes noise and music and sports… the louder and more physical, the better.

Eeyore is slightly cynical, expecting bad things will happen to him. Eeyore focuses on problems and complains. Eeyore loses things a lot and is forgetful. Eeyore is pessimistic, and worries a lot. Eeyore is often shy, tired, or sad. In spite of this, Eeyore is lovable and loves his friends and family.

Rabbit likes to be in charge, is detail-oriented, clever, and good at planning. Rabbit can be counted on in an emergency. Rabbit is very organized and neat, and likes everything in its place. Rabbit is uncomfortable around mess and chaos, and likes to follow a schedule.

Owl is academic (scholarly and well-educated). Owl is a problem solver, is thoughtful, and uses common sense. Owl reads a lot, and knows a lot about a lot. Owl loves to show off how smart he is. Owl is very wise, and would be a good scientist or professor.

Kanga is sweet and nurturing. Kanga loves small children. Kanga makes sure everyone is safe and fed. Kanga is gentle and loving and comforting. Kanga likes a cozy home and quiet moments, and makes a great parent.

Christopher Robin is imaginative. He is very clever and artistic, and has good ideas. He would make a good actor or writer. He loves a good story. He loves to be surrounded by friends. He is a daydreamer and loves to play.

Option One: Write a short story explaining who you are in terms of Pooh. According to your character, how would you react to the situation? Option Two: Describe yourself according to the Tao of Pooh. Which character or characters would you be? Which characteristics do you think fit your personality? Option Three: Describe the qualities illustrated in your drawing. Do they accurately represent the characteristics that you wish to embody? Do you wish that you could embrace other characteristics?