Meerkat Wisdom: The Grass is not Always Greener on the Other Side
Meerkats are very territorial and will protect their boundaries ferociously against other gangs. They plant their own grass, nurture it and take the time to enjoy it. Meerkats don’t spend their lives looking for other animals’ grass in hope that it will be juicier and greener.
Unlike meerkats, we always think that the grass is greener on the other side. We live our lives as if on a runaway train, travelling on and on in the hope of finding a better, warmer, grander station. Oddly, all the stations we stop at are never quite what we thought or hoped they would be, leaving us feeling empty and unsatisfied.
So often the best green grass is right under our feet. That is not to say that you should not look for better opportunities or settle for an average life you are not happy with. Sometimes the key to a happy life is just to be content with who you are and to live your life with a heightened awareness of grasping the opportunities where you are at the moment!
We all know the popular saying: Home is where the heart is. We sometimes can’t see it, don’t value or appreciate it because we take so many things for granted. We always yearn for something else and our focus is on the other side of the fence.
Are you behaving like a clever meerkat planting and tending your own grass, or are you constantly focusing your energy on wanting other people’s grass?
From African Wisdom by Dr. Lanette Hattingh
Dear Net Buddies,
Wow, meerkats grow their own grass. Did you know that?
Also, what characteristics do you think they exhibit with these actions?
We know none of you are scientists, but why do you think meerkats started to grow their own grass (funny or impossible responses are welcome)?
Do you think different groups of meerkats grow different kinds of grasses?
If you had to grow one item to be your primary source of food, what would you choose?
This activity definitely leans to the less serious side. But it is no less important. Also, the IF team loves to laugh, so please make sure to send your responses our way!
Read more about Dr. Lanette Hattingh
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