2016: Section 8

2016 MotY - Section 08 — 2016 MotY – Section 08

Download 2016 MotY – Section 8

In honor of the upcoming Chinese New Year which began on February 8, 2016, I’m dedicating the 2016 Mandala of the Year to the Monkey. Each month we’ll explore a trait or symbol of the monkey to explore how we can incorporate it into our own lives.

For Section 8 we look at the monkey energy of honor.

Monkey Feast in Thailand - photo by Nudy Nutsati — Monkey Feast in Thailand – photo by Nudy Nutsati

Every year in late November the city of Lop Buri in Thailand provides an annual feast for their revered monkeys at the Monkey Temple.

From a youtube post about the feast:

The colorful buffet soon sparks a feeding frenzy for the 3000 monkeys that have lived in this town for centuries. Locals believe that they are the direct descendants of Hindu monkey god Hanuman. And while some consider them a nuisance, many more believe the macaques are a symbol of prosperity and fortune.

About Hanuman from Kashgar.com.au :

Because of his bravery, perseverance, strength and devoted service, Hanuman is regarded as a perfect symbol of selflessness and loyalty.

Simple Definition of honor

respect that is given to someone who is admired
good reputation : good quality or character as judged by other people
high moral standards of behavior

This section of the 2016 Mandala of the Year asks us to examine how well honor plays out in our lives, both with ourselves and with others.

Do we honor our bodies, our lives, the work that we do, our homes, our possessions, our families, our friends, our neighbors, our co-workers?
Do we wait until others honor us before we honor them?
Do our actions for ourselves and with others speak of honor or disrespect?

Our greatest challenge in this regard may be honoring those who totally dishonor us, especially those closest to us. From Luke173Ministries.org they offer this insight:

You can honor them by accepting them for who they are, not expecting change, and letting them live their own way in peace, but at the same time honor yourself and your own right to live in peace as well. Which means choosing NOT to be in their presence when they are abusing you.

Above all though…