The Gentle Giant's Wisdom: A Profound Lesson from the Elephant
Written by: Prince Agbedeyi O. D.
Edited by: Seigha Dora Ayedi.
Original Story: Unknown Author
For Global Egberi Media International Blog
The Unseen Power of Compassion: How Elephants Master Balance
Imagine this extraordinary scene: an elephant, the largest land animal, needs to be transported by plane across continents—say, from India to the United States. To ensure the massive creature remains calm and the aircraft stays balanced during the journey, its enormous crate is filled not with heavy weights or sedatives, but with something utterly unexpected: tiny, fragile chicks.
Yes, you read that right: little, vulnerable chicks.
The reason behind this seemingly bizarre practice lies at the heart of the elephant's magnificent nature. Despite their colossal size and immense strength, elephants are deeply, profoundly afraid of causing harm. Throughout the entire flight, the elephant stands perfectly still, not daring to shift its weight or move its massive frame, all so as not to risk stepping on a single chick.
This incredible display of self-restraint is how the plane maintains its equilibrium, and for the elephant, it serves as the ultimate, unspoken test of its noble character.
More Than Just Physical Giants: The Science of Empathy
Fascinated by this incredible behavior and countless other observations of their gentle intelligence, scientists have delved into the elephant’s brain. Their remarkable discovery? Spindle cells, also known as Von Economo neurons.
These rare, specialized neurons are not only found in elephants but also in humans and great apes, and they are intimately associated with self-awareness, empathy, and complex social perception.
This scientific revelation confirms what many have long suspected: an elephant is not merely a physical behemoth; it is, unequivocally, an emotional giant. It possesses a capacity to feel, understand, and act with a silent, profound wisdom that often transcends our own.
Their gentle interactions, their collective mourning, and their protective instincts are all testaments to this deep-seated emotional intelligence.
Leonardo da Vinci's Enduring Observations
The world’s last true polymath, Leonardo da Vinci, whose genius spanned art, science, and nature, was deeply fascinated by elephants. He penned observations that resonate powerfully with modern scientific understanding:
"The elephant embodies righteousness, reason, and temperance."
He further noted their dignified conduct:
- The elephant enters the river and bathes with a certain dignity, as if wishing to purify itself from all evil.
- If it finds a lost person, it gently guides them back to the right path.
- It never walks alone: always in a group, always led by a guide.
- It is modest: mating happens only at night, away from the herd, and before returning to the group, the elephant bathes.
- If it encounters another herd on its way, it gently moves them aside with its trunk, careful not to hurt anyone.
These ancient observations paint a consistent picture of a creature guided by an innate moral compass, living in harmony with its environment and fellow beings.
The Ultimate Act of Compassion: A Solitary Farewell
Perhaps the most touching and profound insight into the elephant's noble heart is its approach to death. When an elephant senses that its end is near, it leaves the comfort and security of its herd. It journeys to a secluded, often hidden place, to die alone.
Why this solitary departure?
To spare the younger ones the pain and trauma of witnessing its demise. It is an act born of modesty, profound compassion, and an extraordinary sense of dignity.
These are three virtues that are indeed quite rare amongst us humans, who often claim to be an anthropomorphic “creation” in the image of God.
…….Think about it… 🤔🤔
The Elephant as a Mirror to Humanity
The elephant, in its silent, majestic existence, offers us a profound mirror. It challenges us to reflect on our own actions, our own claims to superiority, and our own capacity for empathy, dignity, and selflessness.
In a world often driven by self-interest, the elephant stands as a towering symbol of gentle strength, demonstrating that true power lies not in dominance, but in the profound ability to care, protect, and live wisely.
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