monkey in the tree

A friend shared a wonderful story with me. Sums up choices we have in life. Vervet monkeys were in his garden, and in the winter were becoming quite brave in their mission to pinch fruit out of their kitchen. My friend began brazenly chasing the monkeys away. One big male was not afraid. He challenged bravely, and was intimidating in his effort. The rest of the troop disappeared, but the big male was up for the challenge. My friend admitted that he felt as though his self-worth was being challenged. Not wanting to be shown up, he puffed up his chest, and rushed out after the monkey. The monkey eased up into the tree, loping around effortlessly. He was high up in the tree and my friend was ranting and raving under the tree. Next thing, the monkey, with all the cheek he could muster, unashamedly pee'd down onto the challenge.

I am impressed that he told me this story. He admitted that all he could do in the scenario was giggle. His choice was to see his ego and get back in touch with truth. They both one in the argument. The monkey got a laugh, and my friend laughed at his ego.

Comments

In memory of my mother

My mum passed when I was 23. I never really had the opportunity to come back home to a respectful relationship with her after my teenage rebellious tribulations and assaults on her goodwill. So this blog is to honour and thank her for her contribution to my love for nature. She was an avid bird watcher and had dreams of travelling through the bush. I have many memories of her being fascinated by animals on our weekend getaways to the Kruger National Park. My first memory of her was her riding a horse called Thunder. That is a beautiful memory and the name of the horse is as mystical and awe inspiring as her impact on who I am in relationship with animals. She was fearless. And always confident that all would be well. She had faith in my animal relationships always. As a very young child I was given the task on many occasions to hand rear orphan wildlife and pets. She never micro managed the process but would offer helpful insight that came naturally to her. ...

Overwhelmed

Sometimes I spend time with people who see others in a different way to me. I am left feeling insecure in my intuition. Some believe that human beings are inherently bad. I prefer to see them as inherently good. With regard to people in relationship with animals, any poor relations, I see as misunderstandings or confused belief systems. I need to be able to trust my take on people. Because if I don't, there is no hope. If we don't inherently care, if we don't have that foundation to which we can return once we put our ego and greed aside, then there is no hope. People governed by their egos do three things when faced by challenges - 1. Keep doing the sam and expect a different result. 2. Dig in their heels and force the issue. 3. Give up and walk away with an excuse. All points refuse to acknowledge a problem which can be solved because it is a problem of our own making. So, when I look around and see litter, pollution, unethical care of humans and animals, corrupti...

On his retirement. A tribute to a legend

Veterinarian & human extraordinaire. 50 years of true service to the animal world, the animal people, and to his animal-loving family. Four siblings all who care significantly for animals as a result of the way we were raised. To respect life. Because that is who our father his. Our father is more than a vet. He is a compassionate man. A vet who took his oath to care for animals to the greatest level, inspiring those close and around him to do the same. Caring so deeply. Working so hard. Ensuring that he always did his best. He has such depth and wisdom. He has always had a following of people in his life who he wisely guides. His generosity is boundless. He has inspired his children way more than can be imagined. We are pretty sure there are not many people who are so fortunate to have this example of humble love to follow. We are equally unsure whether we can truly honour his example by dupli...

Touching Animal Souls

Search This Blog