"You cannot look at a sleeping ___ and feel tense": Jane Pauley

CAT

["Here’s a helpful hint for your crossword:\n\n*\"This furry creature is often associated with relaxation, especially when napping in a sunbeam.\"*\n\nThis hint gently points toward the answer by emphasizing the calming nature of the animal without directly stating it or repeating the original clue. It’s easier than the original but still requires the solver to make the connection."]

The clue is a quotation from Jane Pauley, which humorously suggests that observing a sleeping cat induces relaxation, making it impossible to feel tense. The answer, **"CAT"**, fits because: 1. **Literal Meaning**: The quote directly references a "sleeping ___," and "cat" is a common household pet known for its long naps and calming presence. 2. **Cultural Context**: Cats are often associated with tranquility (e.g., purring, lounging), reinforcing the idea that watching one sleep would ease tension. 3. **Wordplay**: The clue plays on the contrast between the stress-relieving nature of cats and the word "tense," subtly hinting at the answer through the implied serenity of the scene. Thus, the answer "CAT" logically completes the quote while aligning with the soothing imagery described.