The story about the humane capture of monkeys in Africa is a favorite of mine because it holds a valuable lesson for each of us regarding possessions. The story goes that some food is placed in a container that has an opening big enough for the monkey’s paw. When the monkey reaches in and grabs the nuts, banana, or special treat it makes a fist as it grasps the food. Reluctant to release the treat, it is captured because it won’t loosen its grip. The “trap” is too heavy to carry around thereby the monkey is caught. If the monkey would just open its paw it would be free to go. The relevance of this story to our lives is too important to pass up. We can carry around our problems figuratively and stubbornly refuse to give them up. When help is offered, we tighten our grip and hold on tightly afraid of what might happen if we release our concerns. This action alone prevents many people from becoming who they might have been. Arrogantly knowing what is best stops people from ever acquiring anything better. Physically, the monkey’s paw can represent our possessions too. Afraid to release what we have to those who could put it to a better use we hang on tenaciously until our possessions control us and not vice versa. Once we realize that, like the monkey, we have to release the hold we have on things before the Universe can bring freedom into our lives. It is a difficult lesson to learn, but one that can open up opportunities for us in the future. If we remain caught then we never advance to the new life that could be waiting for us. So as we reflect on the monkey story, think about anything in your life that inhibits your growth or freedom. As with the monkey, it occurs because you allow it to occur. By acknowledging our greed, arrogance, or hunger, we can begin to realize that if we let go and perhaps delay our gratification for a time there might be two bananas instead of one waiting for us a la carte. Seriously, when we lessen our stronghold on life it often surprises us by bringing to the banquet table all the good life has to offer. Be Your Very Best Always, Judy Williamson
Posted on: Sat, 10 Aug 2013 13:21:25 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015