We have all heard of Darwin's law of selective evolution and the survival of the fittest. According to the concept of evolution, all beings have developed from some basic primeval cells, which divided and went their different evolutionary ways. There has resulted a wide variety of species of living organisms, each of which has found its own unique way to protect itself, and insure its survival as a species.

One example of a survival defense mechanism is that of thorns which many plants have. These thorns protect the beautiful flowers and sweet fruit from possible danger. These thorns say ?stay away?. The cactus is a good example.

Another basic defense system is that of the turtle who hides in his shell every time it senses danger. It prefers to hide from the reality around him in the safety of its shell.

A third example of successful survival strategy is that of the great size and overpowering strength of the elephant. The elephant is a quiet, peaceful vegetarian animal, which does not bother anyone who does not bother it. It is afraid of no one as has no need for thorns or shells to protect it.

We humans also have our defense mechanisms. Our concern is not so much physical as emotional survival: not to be emotionally demeaned or hurt. We have many fears and insecurities. We feel vulnerable in an unfriendly and often antagonistic society.

Some of us have emotional defense mechanisms like the thorns of the plant. In order to protect our soft and fragile emotional self, we shout, blame, criticize and speak sarcastically, so as to keep the other at a distance. Thus we feel safe. But what we are really saying with all those thorns is ?look at how fearful I am?.

Others of us respond to emotional threats by hiding in a shell of ?apparent? insensitivity, which we develop around ourselves for protection. But that shell also closes us into our room of loneliness.

Fewer of us feel inner strength, inner peace and self-acceptance. In such a case, we will be able to ignore the insults and attacks of the others, as an elephant ignores a mosquito on its back.

We will then be able to maintain our peaceful self and not get involved with the small, petty, emotional ego-games which the others play. We will understand and forgive.

What type are you - a cactus,
turtle or elephant?