755 thoughts on “True Leadership & Teamwork – Talk to an Ant”

1. It was great to read this again and observing the games playing out in my work environment. We are far from being like an ant colony as our emotions get in the way. They are every where and everyone brings their issues to work and project that to one another.

   I agree that everyone can lead, it only requires someone to direct them and empower them to be leaders too. That’s often the missing ingredient. However, in each situation their’s also a sense of everyone’s responsibility too, so equally everyone has their part to play.

   We have much to learn about working together and it only requires one to break the barriers of what has been passed or projected onto them. Then observe how your team functions.

2. The list of qualities you listed is what I would love to see in my work environment as inequality exists. Because there is a ranking system, support of one another doesn’t exist, so if your pay grade is higher than you are expected to earn it. The purpose is a goal, and it must be achieved come what may.

   I feel the world is an ant colony, that is addicted to something, in disarray, drive and harmony seldom exists. We have so much to learn from our animal kingdom and yet we are thought to be the intelligent species. We can send man to the moon, or discover a new star or a planet in our solar system and be excited about that, yet disease, suicide and exhaustion continues to rise.

   I love the simplicity and order of how ants live, and no doubt other animals. There is a purpose and we don’t know exactly what it is but it truly can be felt. Humanity has a long way to go. In the meantime, we can make a difference by being us, despite the merry go round we are in. We can reflect our qualities to others, whether they’re inspired or not is also their choice too. We simply continue in our purpose and not to harm anyone.

   1. It is great to have a ranking system and yet that’s all it is, a title that is irrelevant as soon as you walk out the door. Why change when there is a title attached to a badge, you can still be yourself.

3. Considering how ants communicate, there is much we too can learn from them. They do not use words, and yet they know where to go and what to do – they use body language predominantly with phermones etc. As a humanity we rely hugely on visual cues and lots of talking. What if we relied less on these visual and auditory components but instead allowed ourselves to feel more – to feel our way in relationships and to feel our way in life – how much would this change in our approach but also how much would it change the way we work and relate with each other?

4. How important is it that we all play the role of a leader when it is needed. We often can shy away from this as a responsibility and play it small but in the end this serves no one and actually ends up causing delay for all. From reading this blog I get to reflect on those moments when I don’t choose to step up in leadership when really there is a call for it – and so being more aware of this now allows me to make a change and feel when it is needed in order to activate the leadership that is within me simply waiting to be ‘let out’ when the time is right.

   1. Henrietta spot on. If only humanity stopped relying on their physical senses as our other senses are there, just dominant and then we wonder why we react or are affected by what’s going around us.

      Our children need to be brought up cherishing their senses, and trusting what they feel is supported so they don’t shut it down. Then our lives will be different…

5. Ants are inspiring in many ways, ‘What most impresses me about ants is their ability to work together as a team. What they can achieve is quite extraordinary. They are able to work together harmoniously for the good and unity of the colony because this is their common goal and purpose.’

6. I have started to wonder if my need to squash any ant I found on a surface that I deemed ‘my space’ is a clear indication that I was not willing to see the reflection they were offering me… awkward silence and apologies to all the ants I mushed to learn this lesson :-(!

   1. Love this response Lucy : -)

7. Purpose and teamwork, I love that. If we work with others to make us all leaders, then everyone knows their role. They may not actually be leading, but they know their role is equally important to the success of the project.

   1. Well said Lucy and as mentioned the key word is ‘purpose’ – when we know the purpose then there is no question on what needs to be done for everyone is on the same page anyways.

8. We learn so much from nature, I love what you share here.

9. “The role of an ant may change with age and depending upon the needs of the colony they simply do what is needed and thus do not consider any role as less.” It is often the little things in life that are important and ants living in harmony with each other have much to teach humanity.

   1. So true and as humans, our role may need to adapt to the needs of the colony but our commitment to purpose remains the same regardless of our age.

10. Ants a great example of what can come about if we all work together and it wouldn’t hurt for us to take a leaf or two out of their book.

    1. The ants have much we can learn about, especially in regards to brotherhood, true leadership and teamwork .

11. Ants are a reflection of how we could live, and possibly did many thousands of years ago. No leaders or followers, that working together in brotherhood is how we can achieve amazing feats that seem impossible these days, and that we did not need words to communicate. One day we will respect and honour what this tiniest of God’s creatures is reflecting to us.

12. This blog has just reminded me of the importance of the part I play in any group work. Whilst I may not be the focaliser or leader, if I am a part of it then I need to hold the group as equally as the one who initiated it. To do anything less feels irresponsible.

13. I have worked with many teams and have been exposed to many different leadership skills and styles. The ones I love the most are the leaders who lead a team that inspires true teamwork, where every team member loves being a part of the team and everyone pulls their weight and working with a common purpose and love is what fuels them all the way.

    1. A true team does not allow comparison nor criticism to interfere, they all pitch in to the best of their ability and know to call out for assistance as needed – no one tries to soldier on nor compromise themselves in any way, no one feels isolated nor alone nor feeling like they are doing all the work. True teams require connection and communication and solidarity.

14. ‘Every ant knows its role and carries out its task with commitment and without hesitation.’ … the ultimate in commitment and no individuality at play, as each one knows they have a role to play and that no one role is greater or lesser than any other … what an amazing way to live and what a reminder for us as a humanity that we too can live this way.

15. There is so much for us to learn from and be inspired by in the natural world, from the tiniest creature to the largest. And all because every creature on the planet lives in harmony and connection with this natural and divine flow of life.

16. I love how ants cooperate to get the job done.

17. ‘Their purpose felt strong and unwavering’ ‘Every ant knows its role and carries out its task with commitment and without hesitation.’ If we only applied these two qualities or ways of working together, this would change already so much in the state of the world today.

18. We are offered so much when we stay open to the many reflections around us, even a humble ant can show us how to work together harmoniously.

19. I would say that there are not many teams of any sort in the world where each team member is considered to be an equal leader, instead there is usually one person leading and the others following, often resentfully. But how amazing it would be if the concept of all members being equal within the team was adopted. I can feel a huge shift in the way these teams would work, not just for the team but for everyone else they are supporting. And it would be thanks to the ants for the inspiration.

    1. Great point Ingrid. When there is any hint of resentment in teamwork, it becomes a fight and a struggle and this is often a sign of control and abuse of power.

       1. And if it becomes ‘a fight and a struggle’ most teams will split into at least two factions, or maybe more. Once the separation kicks in then it can often be a real challenge to return to the unity of the team – if it was there in the first place – and to its true purpose. This is when someone who has not let the purpose go, who is not in it for themselves and who can observe what is playing out without getting caught up in the emotion, needs to step up and with their wisdom, bring the fight to an end.

20. ‘I knew what I had to do – to stay focused on purpose, to bring everyone with me in my team as equal leaders, and to support a way of working together where everyone was evolving.’ This is very inspiring. No-one gets left behind.

21. Living with a sense of purpose helps us to weather any storm that may come our way.

22. I love that nature does this and feel humbled every time I need a reminder. When you see how ordered and self-less nature is, it makes me so aware of how humans so desperately want the individuality.

23. I think the best leaders I have come across in my life have been very at ease in themselves and have not felt the need to belittle or subscribe to the dog eat dog world.

24. To have true leadership you have to have a sense of purpose and then a commitment to that purpose.

25. The beauty of the ant and its true brotherhood as a species is an amazing reflection and inspiration for us all. Nature reflects to us so much and has an immense offering if we choose to see it and be inspired also.

    1. I agree Tricia, that nature is one of our greatest teachers but in this crazy, fast-paced world we live in most appear to miss valuable lessons like this one, as everything else is more important. But maybe, if we take the time to observe nature and to be open to learning from even the tiniest creature then we may begin to see that the life we have chosen to live is not so wonderful after all.

26. Simply beautiful to come back to and know that there is an order in the universe regardless of the chaos and complication we as a human race stubbornly pursue.

27. Love that the role of the any will change with age – this is yet another pearl that we would do well to listen to. Being young is great with all that energy, enthusiasm and fresh new ideas. Equally being an elder bring a sage quality with experience, a different perspective on space, a sense of a bigger picture and longer time frame. Blend the two together and you our colony (humanity) would be in much better shape.

28. Ants know that there is a divine order and flow to everything.

29. What is being shared here is a way to work in brotherhood which is sadly lacking in our human world where it is all about competition and profit. There are so many ways that we could be supported by taking notice of the way that nature reflects back to us all that is possible should we so chose.

30. Nature knows is responsibility to the ALL – Humans have been lured by the comforts – me, mine not ours!

31. I absolutely love the purpose that ants live with. They show us that purpose helps us to get ourselves out of the way so that there can be brotherhood.

32. A true leader moves quality through vibration and directs it to a purpose.

33. Now that’s what I call true teamwork, members of a team united for a sole purpose, no one looking for accolades and no one wanting to be team leader and the squabbles that may arise from this need to be in control of others. Once again, we are clearly shown that nature has all the answers we will ever need when it comes to life as a human being.

    1. “Once again, we are clearly shown that nature has all the answers we will ever need when it comes to life as a human being.” I love the simplicity that we are constantly living in and get reflected. There is nothing complicated about human life and we have all the support that we need. So life is simply a matter of observation, adjustment and adherence.

34. ‘This revelation from nature is a wonderful new way for me to look at true leadership and teamwork. I now have the opportunity to integrate this new awareness into my relationships … at home, at work, or wherever I am in the world.’ I love how we are shown what we need to see when we are ready for it. And very cool it is when we say yes to these lessons from nature and integrate then into our lives.

35. Both these points are equally inspiring”Every ant knows its role and carries out its task with commitment and without hesitation.”
    “The role of an ant may change with age and depending upon the needs of the colony they simply do what is needed and thus do not consider any role as less.”

36. I like this line about strong and unwavering purpose. It reminds me of how we can all work together without drama and without laziness or complacency. How there can be a unity of working together for a singular purpose that is expressed differently with each person, yet all heading towards the same goal.

    1. Very very factual truth, I love that and it surely holds the answer to our woes.

37. Also, there is so much to appreciate when we truly stop to observe and learn, because nature is incredible and it is here to support us to evolve.

38. Seeing these situations such as ants crossing your path at that exact moment in conversation as communication makes life magical. Even if we don’t read the message straight away, stopping to appreciate the fact we are being communicated to is a start.

39. I love how people naturally help and support each other and the magic that comes from this.

    1. There is no greater feeling than working together for something that is bigger than just me.

40. Giving ourselves the space to simply openly observe life can help us to connect with a deeper understanding of what is truly going on and how our contribution matters to it.

41. We could do with a big dose of commitment and a brotherhood in society today, because as you’ve shared the magic that’s possible with these two simple tools is quite spectacular, in terms of what we are capable of TOGETHER.

    1. Yes, perhaps we could build that into parenting – role model commitment and brotherhood. If we did, we would know what Love felt, sounded and looked like.

42. A beautiful reflection from nature and all it offers us as humanity. The Ants are inspiring in their purpose and oneness and imagine our world if we all united and lived like this – Amazing

43. If we all looked more closely and right the way from school age at the exact workings of nature, wildlife, its symbiosis and order then our entire way of educating, living, working, leading would be reverted back towards to the naturalness of harmony we are in awe of – of nature and equally of ourselves too.

44. Lifting 20 times its own body weight and carrying it for long distances back to its colony – wow, they must know how the pyramids were built.

45. Gosh can we imagine if we behaved towards each other more like the ants
    •Every ant knows its role and carries out its task with commitment and without hesitation.
    •The role of an ant may change with age and depending upon the needs of the colony they simply do what is needed and thus do not consider any role as less.
    This would turn our world upside down for the betterment of everyone if we behaved in this way too.

46. I very much like the fact of getting done what needs to be done in support of the whole.

47. There is no doubt that our greatest and truest potential and purpose will be realised when we work together, equally leading and supporting each other as a unified body, superseding by far anything that we could ever achieve as an individual alone.

48. We clearly have a lot to learn from ants, as many of the qualities they exhibit reflect our true nature. However we are living a long way from that at the moment.

    1. Very true, as we have a lot to learn from each other, from the wisdom that we all have access as to who we are and our purpose of being here together. There is no greater or lesser amongst us and our working together in this capacity and understanding is what will allow our true advancement as a humanity to be realised and lived.

    2. So very true Fiona, nature reflects and reminds us of our grandness and of how amazing we are.

49. It is amazing to have an understanding about how true teamwork can be, and with that, true leadership. But what I find interesting is how we bring this understanding out in to life, for example, do we use it as an excuse to judge people who do not have this same experience of understanding? Or do we live as true role-models, without perfection and with the deepest humbleness, for how life can be when we are all in brotherhood?

50. There is nothing like observing nature to see what it is to live in obedience to the universal flow.

51. Swapping the lead, letting each person step up and run with their strengths, all working with the purpose of supporting everyone else in the environment is very significant.

52. We are born to love and work together. That is why we are here for, to love without holding it back and to share it with everyone else. Working together from there.. Just like ants do! They dont doubt the truth.

53. I love that we have all these great examples in nature to remind us of how we can be … and how awesome are ants, a great reflection that leadership is about all of us.

54. When we are open to it nature can reflect much wisdom and we can learn alot from what we observe from it.

55. How very wonderful it would be to live and work in a ‘colony’ where we were all “able to work together harmoniously for the good and unity of the colony”. Life and work as we know it would change dramatically and so would the world we live in; the harmony of true brotherhood would prevail at last.

56. If our common purpose is evolution for all then the leadership is not what’s important, more so who ever can next bring through what’s needed to lead the whole group. It takes the rigidity out of roles to allow equality in the expression of all involved.

57. Its interesting that despite the amazing teamwork that ants display together, they are generally seen as being a bit of a pest and definitely an inconvenience, especially when they get into our houses or crawl all over our food. Perhpas we should be less quick to get rid of them and be more open to reading the significant messages that they are reflecting back to us.

58. “…what if our work and home environments functioned from the same selfless quality of leadership and teamwork that ants do?” If this were the case, our lives and the impact on society in general would potentially be evolutionary. This surley has to be worth some consideration?

59. “…to stay focused on purpose, to bring everyone with me in my team as equal leaders, and to support a way of working together where everyone was evolving.” This is the key to true leadership, confirmed by the true reflection of the ants. As a Team Leader this is great to read. It’s an inspiring encapsulation of what true leadership is. Thank you.

60. This highlights to me that leadership is not about being ‘the boss’, but inspiring others to also step into their on quality of leadership. We all have something to offer, no matter our role, that is all of equal importance.

    1. Yes, I agree Jennifer. I was appreciating yesterday a team I am part of that shows exactly what you’ve shared here. The leader of our team treats everyone as equals, the level of respect and love can be deeply felt. Being on this team is the first time I have experienced true teamwork and I absolutely love it.

61. Nature is forever reflecting to us how it is possible to live in harmony with everything and everyone. The responsibility for us is to read it and then incorporate the lessons we learn from it into our own lives that can then benefit all.

62. It is so simple when we get self out of the way and align to true purpose.

    1. Yes I agree Vanessa, true purpose and working together can move mountains.

63. Nature reflects so much to us. And this story of ants is so beautiful as it shows the power of working together – no need or ownership – just collaboration and support.

64. There is much for us to learn from nature and its symbolism; from your research, ants live cooperatively and in a mutually supportive way and every one of them, literally, puts their weight including the queen who lays this astounding number of eggs every day.

65. Ants use sounds and pheromones to communicate…. Now this sounds like a great gig! 🙂

    1. Pheromones are a great gig, nothing like it I’m told.

66. Nature is constantly reflecting a true way to live in Brotherhood with each other. A skein, or wedge, of geese flying high in the sky constantly share the responsibility of being the leader of the V formation and then allowing another to take their place in the lead.

67. Spot on Zofia, and I had to laugh as I imagined ants behaving like so many of us as humans where they get grumpy about doing a job or drag their feet or get distracted along the way…chaos would unfold and nothing would get done! A guaranteed disaster…

68. Wouldn’t it be amazing if all team work came about with this approach: “I knew what I had to do – to stay focused on purpose, to bring everyone with me in my team as equal leaders, and to support a way of working together where everyone was evolving.”

69. I feel it is absolutely key that the ants are all equal with each interchanging leadership. Also they are unquestioning everything is in the flow of purpose. We can learn a lot from Ants!

70. Where would we be without the simple and profound reflections from nature? Nearly everything we use and rely on comes from it and at times is inspired by it. We have much to appreciate about what nature reflects and shows us.

71. When you get ants in your pants you know that something in your life needs looking into! As ants are so well organised they only bring brotherhood to everything they do.

72. I love how true teamwork is run with absolute equality and harmony because it is void of competitiveness, individuality and packed full with purpose and love.

73. Ants have the ability to work together for the whole group for one purpose – what an excellent reflection.

74. Last summer I was on a walk and accidentally stepped on an ant hill which obviously destroyed a large part of it. Amazingly, when I came back around to that same spot only an hour or so later, the same ant hill looked like it was completely back to its original shape and one would never know I had stepped on part of it! The level of brotherhood in action and absolute focus in harmoniously working together to complete that task in that amount of time is really remarkable. If any one of those little guys got into an ego trip of “no, I’m too high of a rank to be doing clean-up work like that” or “I cleaned up the ant hill last time someone stepped on it, it’s your turn now!” the ant hill would still be a mess. We can certainly learn a lot from ants and other animals that are constantly providing messages to us about life.

75. From ants we can learn the virtues of true leadership. Yet, it feels that we can benefit even further: ants reflect us living purposefully and in harmony, without individuality.

76. Nature is absolutely an inspirational teacher – forever on task… it is up to us whether we show up to class and pay attention to what is before us.

77. I watched some ants recently break down a deceased cockroach in less than 24 hours, to nothing. Quite amazing really. Not only the way that they work together, but how they complete everything that they attend to. No crumb left unattended. Not only are ants a great reflection for team work and leadership, they are also a great reflection for completion and everything being completed with the same commitment and dedication as when they first began the task.

78. Yesterday on my morning walk there was quite a volcano on the footpath, one that was built by ants. It was about 5cm high and was really quite amazing. That is a lot of dirt to move by an ant. Then when you look around and see all the little ant piles, that a lot of earth moving. No ant could do that on their own nor could ants do what they do if they didn’t all work together. It’s the same with us – we can’t do what we do without being part of a much bigger team.

79. A great leader is one that realises that they are an equally important part of a team in which anyone can lead at any time, but ultimately all are led and unified by a one purpose which is where the true power of teamwork comes alive.

80. Gosh…we could learn a thing or two from these ants! Purpose, no compromise, dedication, commitment and brotherhood. Imagine if we applied theses values across the board what the world would look like?

81. We have much to learn about harmony, flow and true brotherhood from the reflections offered by nature.

82. During a radio interview about the film industry, a person shared that often it is the teams that get along the best that produce the best results. They may not be the ‘best in the industry’ but they get the results as there is a true sense of teamwork. I found that insightful to hear that the quality of the team is vitally important, and that the results are the end result of that. And not just the focus on the end result without how that is achieved.

83. There’s no need for the thousands of management books and courses out there. Just take a look at the footpath to see examples of true leadership in action. Leadership is not about bossing people around, it is about connecting to and living with purpose with love and truth as your foundation.

84. “Ant colonies don’t have leaders – yes there is the queen ant, but she doesn’t tell the other ants what to do and yet they are an extremely organised and productive species.” This to me is true Brotherhood where everyone works together for the greater whole. This doesn’t mean we don’t take the initiative and lead, but it is done by impulse, and a knowing that at that moment we are being offered the awareness/opportunity to follow through with something that will support everyone else in the task or project that everyone is working towards.

85. We are all part with of the whole so it makes sense that we would be harmonious being one together not a part trying to prove themselves etc. Life is so much simpler when we realise we are apart of a plan and that is absolutely about brotherhood.

86. I always avoided leadership as I didn’t want to ‘manage’ someone and it turns out my dislike of this is true as a leader doesn’t manage someone else they simply take the lead knowing they are equal to everyone else and that everyone else can support and lead also. We are so grand together.

87. Is it possible that we are projecting our ideals and beliefs onto nature. Is it possible that there are no leaders there are no teams. Is it possible that nature is at one with what needs to be done and have an intelligence of the agenda of this purpose and therefore there is no conflict or disagreement and there is hierarchy of understanding of purpose and therefore no comparison.

88. Ants sound like a species who know service. There seems to be no self in ant-hood.

89. To watch ants in action is very inspiring, their teamwork, commitment, purpose, and more amazing qualities as highlighted in this blog, makes me ponder surely we are capable of so much more as human beings, ‘what if our work and home environments functioned from the same selfless quality of leadership and teamwork that ants do?’

90. What I love about Ants is that they live for the purpose of the whole and not just what they individually get out of something, I do often wonder how different life would be like if we took the reflection that ants provide and made that part of our living way, everyday.

91. Ants and nature are incredible inspiration for pretty much every aspect of life, us humans would do well to become humble enough to see what is right in front of us.

92. There is so much that we can learn just by observing what is all around us we just have to look up, down, and all around.

93. “Every ant knows its role and carries out its task with commitment and without hesitation.”

    This is my #qotd (quote of the day) and I will use this as in my inspiration to conduct my tasks, thank you. I especially like the bit about …without hesitation…

94. I watched some ants this weekend, they where enroute on a wall, there must have been about 3 metres of highway, of back and forth, it was incredible to watch the cooperation and consistency; I was inspired.

95. Just goes to show that size does not matter when the humble ant can teach human beings a lesson on how to work as a team.

96. ‘They are able to work together harmoniously for the good and unity of the colony because this is their common goal and purpose’. Anything and everything is possible when we work together with a common purpose to care and support each other. The essence of accepting another or being accepted just for who we truly are expands our light.

97. Nature has so much to offer us, imagine what we humans could do if we worked together as these ants do, ‘Even though an ant is smaller than your finger nail, it can lift 20 times its own body weight and carry it for long distances back to its colony.’ Maybe we have part of an answer here as to how the pyramids were built.

98. There is a lot we can learn from nature and the way some animals cooperate. We humans are supposed to be the most intelligent species, but a lot of our behaviour does not demonstrate intelligence. In fact we are very destructive with ourselves and each other.

99. I love the joy and innocence of just seeing the beauty in the little details of nature. We tend to ignore these humble reflections and/or try to exploit natures qualities for humanities gain. Such as genetic engineering.

100. I experience this in my work life – sometimes being the one who is washing up and cleaning the kitchen and at others making the difficult decisions or encouraging us all with a new vision or strategy and pretty much everything else in between. I love the diversity, that nothing is greater or lesser than the other, and that deep down its all about the quality you bring equally to every task no matter what it is.

101. imagine if we could live like the ants, would it then too be possible to lift 20 times our own weight? A simple equation show the we then could lift 20 times 62kg (average body weight in the world) is 1240kg! Maybe we are able to once again build constructions like the great pyramids.

102. When we allow ourselves to truly lead, others also take up leading naturally, a team, a community, a city, a country, the world then knows the importance of every single part being equally crucial for the whole, no one is lesser or more superior.

     1. Imagine a workplace where everyone claimed this – where they were the leader in their role and they knew the importance of what they did and how they fitted in with the whole. Life is very fulfilling when we live this way.

103. I always knew ants are way more intelligent than we gave them credit, I remember having a debate on the bus with a friend of mine a few years back who was convinced that ants are just ants, they don’t do anything special but just go about their day and of course we as human beings are more intelligent than them because we have a bigger brain – but boy how much we don’t know about nature and it’s work on this planet.

104. This is a beautiful sharing of the wonders of nature and to me evidence of how life can be lived when you align to true purpose and love, when this occurs you are equal to the universal intelligence and are pulsed forth from this, when their is no ‘self’ getting in the way magic is guaranteed.

105. It is beautiful to observe that ants simply work together not because of a leader who directs but simply because the leader emanates and the team members simply go about being in their fullness, doing what is needed and contributing to the whole.

     1. Very true Adele, we have a lot to learn from ants about harmony and true brotherhood.

106. When we are open to truly learning about ourselves and life everything in life is there to support us to do so. In this way we can see and feel that we are never alone.

107. It’s interesting that some ‘leaders’ they can be threatened by the very thought that a true leader nurtures leadership in others so everyone is able to live their potential in full. What I experience is that in my own capacity as a team leader or being part of a team lead by another, we flow and work as one when there is this openness to simply doing what is needed and not worrying about some artificial hierarchy that gets in the way of the purpose of the team.

108. Wow, how much can we learn from the ants and in general from what nature is reflecting to us. ‘The role of an ant may change with age and depending upon the needs of the colony they simply do what is needed and thus do not consider any role as less.’ It is only about purpose and coming there together, something we, as human beings, have not yet mastered.

109. Having a true and common purpose is what is lacking in society. The Way of The Livingness restores this.

110. The ant so small a package yet so determined in its purpose to bring more in every waking hour. This blog hits the nail on the way we can often play small yet our purpose is too big. The difference is the quality we choose to work from that will either build team work or leave us in a pit of endless doubt and overwhelm. The ant is inspiring and this blog packs a great punch on how simple it truly can be.

111. Working together as a team is so important. “…what if our work and home environments functioned from the same selfless quality of leadership and teamwork that ants do?” Work and family environments would be transformed. You don’t see ants tussle in a leadership struggle to be top ant, or acting lesser than. They all pull together for the common good. No egos in ants!

112. When we work in true team work the magic is beautiful, there is a flow and purpose in the delivery.
     Everyone holds equal responsibility of completing the projects, together more is achieved. This is the beauty I have begun to see.

113. I was watching some ants last night, carry a pumpkin seed across the kitchen bench. It is actually incredible to watch and see how they work together unwaveringly so, with a commitment to the whole of the colony in every moment. I will take this into my day and observe if I am this way in all that I do during the day.

114. once we debunk the myths of competitiveness and see it for the evil, the separativeness and the and deep harm that it causes, we will be able to return once more to living in true teamwork together for all.

     1. True team work is harmony in motion, it’s the absoluteness of us unifying as one.

115. Thank you for sharing this, what a great sharing about teamwork and leadership. We can all transfer this into every facet of our lives, leading by example and leaving the door open for others to lead us in the same way.

116. I have worked for many companies in my job but I have not come across a company that operates harmoniously like the example you gave with the ants in all the different places I have worked. We have so much to learn from nature, it reminds us that we too can live and work harmoniously and that we are all part of one big team. We just have to choose to accept and treat each other as equals and be love.

117. Ants they don’t try and look different nor does one of them run a team or rely on one to get things done. We can absolutely draw a lot from how these creatures go about their business but there is a quality there that we may not see deeply enough. How can they do what they do, yes it’s because of how they interact but we can’t just duplicate this into the human world. There is a quality they connect to that in this gives them super human strength and there isn’t a choice or discussion or a vote on who does what, that quality that they adhere to brings forward someone to do it, every time. What I am saying is that we still think there is a choice or if I do this or that it will be better or improve things. This maybe the case but we are missing the point or part, the energy the ants align to brings with it a movement. They don’t think there an ant but just see themselves as part of a plan and they just honour their part, whatever that is. We still operate in the ‘my’ this and ‘I’ll do’ that and not move to a feeling first. There are cycles to life as we know and it’s possible, like the ants if you are aligned to those cycles in every moment then what you do is no big deal but what you are a part of is endless and ever expanding. We are too busy building our nests to see that we are a small part in a big part.

     1. ‘There is a quality they connect to that in this gives them super human strength and there isn’t a choice or discussion or a vote on who does what, that quality that they adhere to brings forward someone to do it, every time.’ Yes Ray it is this constant connection that allows a harmony so that everyone is working for the all – at all time. Quite beautiful and something that is inspiring to us who have made things so personalised and can be either too fast or too slow at coming forward to do what is needed because of our separation from this Universal flow.

        1. Is this as simple as it is? By connecting to this flow or “Universal flow” which is obvious what nature is adhering to all around us things become literally a breeze. We could do a study on ants alone and see the whole world in that, no me, bickering, arguments, tantrums, just all dedicated to the all and knowing that this connection is the only choice and everything thereafter comes from there. It makes it super simple and this all brings a reflection to my life. We only think we think when in fact as ants do it’s not a thought but a connection that has the power.

118. This is a beautiful example how when we truly seek with an open heart the answer will be presented to us and we will be able to see it.

119. To re read this blog at intervals is so inspiring! How different our experiences in life would be if we all took equal responsibility in sharing the load of life.

120. I love this ant reflection of how team-work and working together for a common purpose is so clear and unquestionable. They absolutely live the truth of working for the All. And no point can it be felt that an ant would want to make it about themselves, stop work or sulk because they weren’t the leader or carried more load.

121. Observing nature can give us a glimpse of selflessness in action. There is no thought of the individual in the case of ants. I recently learned that ants will always go to help one of their injured brother ants. True brotherhood.

     1. What you’ve shared about the ants is natural in all of us too sueq2012. We are not living true brotherhood simply because we have chosen not to.

        1. So true, chanly88. ‘We are not living true brotherhood simply because we have chosen not to.’ And so, to return to true brotherhood is simply a matter of choosing again.

122. It is great coming back to this blog…there is much joy in it. Wow, ants are amazing aren’t they! Nature really does have a lot to show us in terms of how we could live and exposing where we are well off the mark.

123. “yes there is the queen ant, but she doesn’t tell the other ants what to do and yet they are an extremely organised and productive species.” When left to our own devices, with a knowing of what we are good at and what we can bring and a strong sense of responsibility to bring it, we often don’t need to be ‘told what to do’, we just get on and do it. It is the micro-managing that many leaders partake in, that can stop people bringing this to their workplace.

124. It is very inspiring to observe a person express in full. We expand with the person if we align and appreciate the moment or contract if we do not align and go into comparison. It is always a choice one or the other.

125. This is a very inspiring blog that shows us that if we are open and willing to see the messages that God is continually communicating to us through nature, then what ever we need to evolve is right there.

126. I love watching ants going about their business and have like you have learnt so much about them, as in how they effortlessly work in harmony while supporting each other. I have also wondered, like you, how to relate this to how we are in situations when we are working with others, such as at work. Watching the teamwork of these tiny little creatures is such an inspiring reflection but one that I am sure is possible to replicate in our every day human interactions.

127. This is one of best descriptions of leadership I have seen – “stay focused on purpose, to bring everyone with me in my team as equal leaders, and to support a way of working together where everyone was evolving.” It is a good reminder and check for me to look at how I am leading at the moment and does it have those qualities?

128. This is the intelligence that we too have access to and the opportunity to live in every moment – if we choose.

     1. Yes, so important Annie – if we choose. When we work in isolation we cut ourselves off from the support that is there for us. Respecting we all have an equal part to play in the whole makes light work!

     2. Yep! Take a moment to view ants and many other animals in nature who are taking on the responsibility marker that humanity is in delay with.

129. This is the true intelligence we too have the access to, and the opportunity to live in every moment.

     1. Spot on Annie, this grand intelligence is reflected to us continuously by nature.

130. This proves that intelligence is not measured by the size of our brain, that there is a greater form of intelligence at play, one that is part of universal order. We have the potential to live in accordance with that harmony or to wilfully choose to live outside of and against universal order and since our bodies are inextricably a part of it, all that we do contrary to that order must then be cleared by our bodies, hence the illness and disease that arises to clear the disharmony – a way of bringing us back and learning to live once more true to the harmony and order that we naturally and innately from.

131. I so enjoy returning to this blog. Nature is beside us, always, it never says it is greater, it holds us in the absoluteness we are, and there is never a moment missed to show us this. This beauty honoured and respected brings a joy that is so complete, it stills the body and allows our true nature to be felt.

132. We buy books, we attend workshops, we pay consultants to try to get insights into how things could work differently. We are soooo busy and sooo focused that we tend to miss what God is constantly offering us by means of reflection.

133. This is so true Sally and I love working in a team when true leadership is present. Work becomes a joy and imagine if all our organisations operate with true leadership? We could certainly live this as a reality.

134. I am fascinated by the fact that ants do not have a designated leader. From what you share it’s clear that there is leadership in abundance and they may be called in to lead at any time. It is the same for us. We may go to work and feel that ‘our manager will take care of it’, how different would our lives be if we knew that we may need to step into a leadership role at any moment.

135. I love this blog and have read it many times before – but I must have overlooked about the queen ant and I was fascinated by it. It made me wonder about the femaleness and how the species other than humans might be respecting it as the holding quality.

136. Doing what is needed is a great form of leadership.

137. I also humbly submit to what I can learn from the dedication to life that an ant brings to the table. Also the presentations by Serge Benhayon have been a huge inspiration in my life in how to be responsible for all my movements and expression to the best of my ability.

138. Fascinating facts about ants especially that they live in colonies of millions so that is equivalent to a country for us. They do so in harmony with no leader just every single member committed to a common purpose. Every ant shows leadership qualities and it feels like we are having a leaderless future reflected to us where as more and more people align to our true purpose and let go of competition etc the need for leaders, even of countries, falls away. Already there are some small companies who have dispensed with having a CEO and shared out the work thus demonstrating what is possible.

139. we can learn so much from nature – it is pretty astounding to see that everything we need is actually already existing. The simple order of ants – no dominance, just support – is something most workplaces could benefit from.

140. Love this, such huge fundamental lessons for life learned from the tiny ant, it goes to remind me that we can never give one thing more importance than another.

141. Extraordinary role models indeed. There is no doubt that humans could learn a lot from nature because it would seem in light of this, that ants are in fact the more evolved species when it comes to leadership and working together.

142. “They are able to work together harmoniously for the good and unity of the colony because this is their common goal and purpose. Wow – ants are so inspiring!” We have a lot to learn from ants. There is no ‘self’ in their lives it would seem, but all working together for the common good.

143. A true leader is one that is willing to step back and allow another to lead when it is beneficial for the all, this is one of the wonderful reflections we receive from nature that leadership has got not recognition but a purpose for the all.

144. Leading for us all, the colony that is humanity, and not for individual self truly is an evolutionary step to take!

145. An ant never takes a day off, or only works part-time. It does not do only the most convenient shifts or calls in sick due to overwhelm. They work consistently, without self, and yet they work as a whole, each one contributing their part so that the whole may continue. They do not jostle for power with eachother, they do not undermine the authority of one another. There is harmony between them as they each understand what they are expected to do, and never are they expected to do any less or more than what they can actually do.

146. Our department passed a big inspection this week. Even thought I was the lead for the inspection, it was good to appreciate how without the team, I would not have been able to do what I did. I know I can sometimes look for individual recognition, by for example wanting others to know if something was ‘my’ idea, but that sets up competition rather than the brotherhood so clearly demonstrated by the ants.

147. When we share the load equally with each other everything always feels and is so much lighter.

148. There are so many humbling reflections in nature.

149. Looking at ants in a new way after reading this – so much focus and dedication to what needs to be done. Awesome.

150. “Lifting 20 times its own body weight and carry it for long distances back to its colony” – sounds like ants will be able to show us humans how the Great Pyramid was built.

151. Ants are awesome- they just get on with what needs to be done. I love the reflections we can get from nature- the truth of life in a lived simplicity.

152. Animals are amazing at what they can show and reflect back to us if we but only choose to listen. If we all worked like ants the world would be a different place. There is no competition rather each ant seeing their role as equally important – as a part of the whole and not a separate entity trying to make its own way. I have found, just like with ants, true success and contentment is only found when we work together.

153. Could you imagine a world where human’s lived like this? Where “every ant knows its role and carries out its task with commitment and without hesitation.” It would be a very different place.

154. Wow! The simple messages of wisdom we are endlessly seeking are all around. What to know the secret to harmony and living with no war or conflict? – simply look at the ants!

155. How beautiful the magic of God is.

156. Great and true leadership is a rare thing to find. Often managers and leaders have some of the qualities needed but fall short in some area that the ants just do naturally. The other problem I see is that employees often see themselves as separate, not responsible, or unequal and in a position to criticise without seeing their equal part and responsibility in the health of the team.

157. Reading this blog I could feel how there is perfect order when we move with rhythm and impulse. Ants move with impulse from the divine, with this impulse come purpose, and a precise movement that is always for the all.

158. Ants are certainly awesome and there is much to learn in their reflection. I also agree that on a team everyone is equal and needed to play their part. However, in my experience it serves to have a team leader which is not necessarily a role that needs to keep swapping. Being a leader does not make you better than another, but simply means that is a role you play and your form of expression. Not everyone is suited to being a leader and it wouldn’t work if everyone was the leader – we all need to be as we are. The joy and richness is in the different expressions which together make the whole.

159. When we all share life equally and share the load as lets say in true brotherhood who knows what is possible.

160. Wow the power of an ant! I love this symbology how awesome we have these little guys to reflect to us true brotherhood.

161. Gosh, we really don’t need to look far to get the lessons we need. Why we avoid and ignore nature as our everyday teacher is just crazy. So much on offer for us, that would help us get out of our own way.

162. Love this blog and to read it again at any time is inspiring and heart warming. True guidance from the insect world!

163. ‘The role of an ant may change with age and depending upon the needs of the colony they simply do what is needed and thus do not consider any role as less.’ Look at this and then at our society, how poor are our choices with older people and roles that are seen as less, the judgements we hold are there to avoid the power we have when we would work together in equalness.

164. What I love about animals, is that they all move through impulse and not with there head. It always reminds me that our natural way of being is to do the same.

165. The learning available to us from nature is there surrounding our every move and yet we sometimes forget just how important our relationship with nature is. I love the reflections on offer from nature and the exploration of our own ways of living can be greatly healed and magnified by what we see, feel and learn from all that surrounds us everyday.

166. “They are able to work together harmoniously for the good and unity of the colony because this is their common goal and purpose.” This is true of ants and with true purpose the lesson from nature could be lived by humanity.

167. I really like this line about “Every ant knows its role and carries out its task with commitment and without hesitation.” This exposes for me the huge amounts of self doubt I have allowed to be in the way of the true commitment that is actually there and available for me to live by.

168. Imagine if all humans worked together for the good and the unity of the colony – world problems would be wiped out in a few days! I love how everything around us has the ability to inspire us to live in a greater way.

169. Nature has so much to teach us in its reflection of true harmony, balance and unity.

170. We can learn a massive amount from nature. Here we are thinking we are more intelligent/evolved when there are animals with greater commitment to life and communication skills

171. Nature can bring the most awesome reflections if we are open to the meaning and insight that is there on offer for us. We can see it as God’s instant messaging service 🙂 always offering a chance for greater awareness and learning if we so choose.

172. As a society we champion the individual but what if we are actually designed to work as part of one interwoven, interdependent whole, just as the Universe works in perfect order and harmony. If we go for recognition then we are perpetuating the cult of the individual and we lose out on understanding of true group work, the power that it holds, and the joy that it brings as it confirms our interconnection and oneness with the All.

173. True leadership is so needed in our nowadays world, to take our responsibility and lead the way when needed and asked for, all in service of the whole and never for any self gain or reward.

174. I love this blog. It’s beautiful to feel the true harmony in group work. We have a lot to learn from them. I have always been a good, reliable, efficient worker, but often ended up feeling resentful and abused in the end. And your list here is inspiring me to look into how I might be holding up an ideal, getting attached to roles and positions instead of claiming my power in full to be the whole of me before doing a ‘good’ job, and how this was stopping me from trusting others.

175. Pingback: The Bankruptcy of Comfort – The Truth about Serge Benhayon

176. This is such a playful blog and shows the power of observation – there is so much order in life – particularly nature – that when we are aware of this – can show us so much. What really stood out here is that there is a leader in a sense but everyone is equal at the same time. It is divine and their movements are in complete order as they work together.

177. The best thing about an ant colony is that there are no dynamics. Everyone just pitches in and gets the job done. The movie “Ants” with Woody Allen, where a single ant craves individuality at the expense of the whole was a complete bastardisation of what ants are there to teach us about the true value of working together.

178. Nature in all it’s glory is a wonderful teacher and reflection for us. I just love how these pearls of wisdom are presented just at the right moment, if we are open and willing to understand what it offers.

179. Nature never stops providing us with communications that if observed can provide some amazing insights in our lives. And what I am learning and am reminded of as I read this blog is that there is never a mark that one can hit and say ‘I’ve read enough’ or ‘I know what the message is already’ – every moment is an up to date communication that we can respond to and learn from.

180. Your example of the ants clearly shows where our downfall is, as ants don’t want it their way, they do not have their individual point of view or refuse to do their job because they are not acknowledged for it, etc. all these little but rather big obstacles that get in the way for us as humans.

181. We have so much to learn from these tiny little animals, in fact from nature in general. Of late I have experienced and worked with managers who could well take a leaf out of the ants book!

182. There is so much to learn from ants, in regards to true leadership and teamwork. What they share and show is truly inspirational. “The ant leading the way was always changing – they were sharing leadership so there was never one leader.” This is true leadership not taking ownership but sharing the leadership and inspiring others. This is where true team work is at play like the ants.
     “The equality and teamwork between each ant was very much felt”

183. It seems that we have so much to learn from nature’s reflection. The way the ants work harmoniously together is certainly very inspiring. We can also work together in this way once we learn to let go of recognition, competition and individuality. Team work flows when true leadership is present without an ounce of control.

184. This is a timely and inspiring read for me as I am being called to step into a far bigger role and have been having some concerns over my ability to lead a large team and become a ‘leader’s leader’ (JK). Thank you for sharing your observations and realisations about this – it’s so supportive.

     1. It seems like this call continues Lucy 🙂

185. “They were a team of 3 that I couldn’t ignore, and no accident that they were crossing at this moment given the subject we were talking about.” – it’s incredible how things constellate at just the right moment to offer us a deeper awareness of something!

186. A simple but profound lesson from nature in true teamwork. It would be great to present this to the corporate and business world and anywhere for that matter including the classroom. Perhaps this could be the beginning of the end of competition and comparison in showing everyone that each of us has an equally important part to play.

187. Nature has much to teach us, if only we are humble enough to listen to its messages.

188. Appreciating and understanding the importance and dynamics of nature is vital for us all as it reflects true harmony, balance and unity which are all foundational qualities that our society craves to have as their own.

189. Ants are amazing to watch model true team work supporting and pulling one another forward all the way.

190. This shows that we all can choose to practice being a leader in working as a team. We all lead the way in this and the true valuing of the essence of who we are. Nature is so honest in its reflections to us when we are connected. Trusting the fact that everything has its place and honouring this is what it is all about.

191. It is amazing how even the simple choice to not eat gluten, dairy or any stimulants can make to the wellness of our body. The key is to feel what our bodies are saying back to us and let its wisdom be our guide.

192. Being a leader doesn’t mean the person isn’t any greater than those they lead. They only lead the way. (The first person in line to the next destination)

193. I love the way the leader changes… different qualities are needed at different times, and it shows a willingness to let everyone be equal and yet different and unique as well.

194. The ants totally have it sorted on the Brotherhood front. I love how you observed that they would be taking turns in the lead and not one ant hogging it thinking they know which way to go. How gorgeous! The ants have it, that we each bring something unique and not one of us can do it on our own, this world just isn’t designed that way and we can fight for identity all we want, but it doesn’t really get us anywhere. Let’s take a page out of the ants’ book and learn to co-operate in a way that reflects the harmony we feel within ourselves when we appreciate our uniqueness and that of others.

195. How often do we see ants and dismiss them as a pest..? Even if it’s just one that has gotten into a strange place, like our dinner table, and is normally handled with a flick or a squish! Obviously, yes, they can cause damage in large numbers and love digging up our lawns to make homes – but look what we are missing out on – a reflection of true brotherhood. A great reminder to stop and see what nature is showing us and learning from it.

196. There is so much we can learn from nature, and the ants are a great example of true group work. Rarely as humans do we take into account how our decisions will affect others in our group, be it our family or work colleagues – mostly it is about us and how we can benefit. With everybody doing that is it any wonder we have so much disharmony all over the world, and countries not being able to come to an agreement which serves all equally.

197. Everything flows harmoniously in all areas of our life when we make it about people and our every decision has an effect on the whole group, family or team. I just made a decision right now to change my hours so it works for the whole team. Before making this very simple choice I could feel the tension in my body as it was what was needed and I hadn’t voiced yet. I can feel the whole offfice is more calm now because of the change.

198. Us humans working as a team have so much to learn from the ants – we are so good at incubating the culture of irresponsibility by allowing some to get away with their lack of commitment/responsibility and driving others to carry the dead weight, and calling that a ‘team work’. None of us is perfect, and we all have our strength and weakness. We cannot keep hiding in the back of our weakness, it is our responsibility to shine bright with our own strength.

199. I have recently started working with some amazing ants – we switch roles seamlessly between leader, follower, supporter, initiator. It’s amazing to me how beautifully it works and also how supportive it is. I used to be a solo warrior…cutting through the long grass on my own….never again…the ant way is the way. There are the obvious benefits of sharing the workload and supporting. But what really makes the magic is how the connections with other people inspire and induce such powerful insights and other ways. 1+1=3. It really is all about connection first and for so much of my working life I have completely ignored this fact and just steamed straight in to getting it done. Thank you to Serge Benhayon and the teachings of Universal Medicine for showing me another way. And thank you to my new fellow ants.

200. A great example to highlight how every single role is needed within a team – no matter how big or small a part a person (or ant) plays. Let’s face it, in the scheme of the whole universe, we are like ants on this planet and yet we have a long, long way to go before we’re working in harmony like ants do.

201. There is so much here that we can learn from the humble ant in how to work as a team. One takeaway is that they take it in turns to lead. You see this with birds also, how they work together and change the position of the lead to share the load. What this says is that we are all capable of leading at some point and by giving people this opportunity, they learn and grow.

202. I so agree the ant is an excellent example of working together. Where the individual is rendered norte, In the big picture for the all.

203. I love this blog and can so relate to the equality that is felt when a team is working together. There is no room for complications and when they do arise there is an openness to share questions… What is going on? How did this come in? with understanding rather than criticism.

204. Quite amazing how these three ants appeared when you were talking about true leadership; I have also observed how well they work together and how big and heavy they can carry compared to their size and negligible weight – how would it be if we lived like that as human beings?

205. I absolutely love team work or as I call it group work. What we can achieve working together as one is miraculous and deeply joyful. This is exactly how we are meant to work each bringing and contributing our equal part as no one person has it all.

206. It’s very humbling to appreciate just how far off track we are in the stakes of community living, where true purpose, equality and ‘whatever it takes’ are shared principles and ways of operating. A magnificent reflection and reality check offered from a being that is smaller than a fingernail.

207. Nature is always inspiring us, if we only choose to observe and see what they got to share. It is amazing to feel the quality those ants bring to this world. Utter commitment to every task no one being less than the other, doing what is needed and all lead the way when it is they’re time, it is something we all can learn from and see that true leadership is not deciding the course on our own, but taking everyone in consideration.

208. Nature has a way of showing things to us in the most delicate way, and reminding us of the amazing order that makes everything work. From the tiniest ant to the large Lion, it all means something. Taking time to appreciate these things is truly worthwhile, as is appreciating the beauty of people and seeing the love in them.

209. “The ant leading the way was always changing – they were sharing leadership so there was never one leader“-this feels like true leadership and is what I am experiencing in one of the projects I am in. Where several people actually lead the group and it feels great once you drop any images about leadership.

210. it really is wonderful to read about the extraordinary qualities of nature, and surely there are lessons and reflections here for humanity to observe and feel.

211. Leigh – this is such an amazing and masterful view of work and I love how you deconstruct the notion of flexible – your take on it shatters so many of the preconceptions and ideals around work. I wish you had been my ‘career advisor’ when I left school!!

212. This is beautiful to read, what nature reflects to us is essential to understand and see that it is the way we can live as well.

213. You could almost say ant-spiring

214. We could all do with studying ants as a reminder of how to truly live together in Brotherhood.

215. I love revisiting this blog as encapsulates so much about true Community and Brotherhood. It feels the like the true way for all Humanity – there is much we can re-connect to through our observations of the humble ant.

216. So gorgeous to revisit this blog, especially at a time when I have been troubled by situations where teamwork, cohesiveness and equality have not been at play. I noticed how quickly I have gone into judgement or resentment rather than seeing that we each bring a quality that either supports or brings down the whole. A great reminder to me to see that no role is any less, but that we each play a part, bring a quality and this is what I find creates equality, joy and brings purpose to everything we do.

217. The more I embrace myself as the leader that I am the more I understand the truth in these words –”The ant leading the way was always changing – they were sharing leadership so there was never one leader”. This is how it ought to be, no leaders and no followers, just people feeling when they are the leading impulse on a project, work task, household chore etc and then working with others around that.

     1. I think this is key Elizabeth. Even when we are the ‘leader’ we need to remain always open to the whole and to the possibility of “leading from behind” – i.e. following. It is a fact that until someone chooses something for themselves then it doesn’t have the full acceptance and commitment behind it. Thus if we always lead from the front, then people are missing the opportunity to trust claim their own path.

218. 1.”The equality and teamwork between each ant was very much felt”
     2.”Their purpose felt strong and unwavering.”
     These two points stood out for me this morning concerning teamwork. We have to learn a lot to live in the way which the ants are presenting to us.

219. I love how each ant has the readiness to be in the role of leader or supporter, and it is just so organic and normal for them to be in that way in response to whatever is being called for.

220. When I lived and worked in the UK, I used to love that in almost all the companies that I worked in everyone called each other by their first name; while in Japanese companies it is more customary to address your superiors by their job titles. The former, at least from my part, allowed me to feel that the job titles were just the roles and not the persons; but the latter keeps affirming the role personified eventually leading to build invisible walls.

     1. This is amazing Fumiyo. Fascinating. As you say, in this model, we become evermore entrenched in what we do rather than who we are. It’s not a million miles away from the technique they used in prisons where inmates were called by their number, thereby destroying their sense of identity.

221. I love that sense of truly connecting together, with one common purpose, with everyone equal, and together with one voice expressing what needs to be expressed… Sounds like a great choir ☺

222. If ants were the size of humans they would be running at 35mph. Makes me wonder at the delay that we humans engage in.

223. One of the best forms of leadership is to follow. Then others step in to their full power. Then you have a formidable team.

224. I think its pretty cool that you have offered such a deeper awareness just by observing the workings of a group of ants, nature has so much to offer us if we take the care and interest

225. Teamwork is always an amazing experience if what matters is what we can achieve together and not ‘where am I in the picture’. Leadership comes from all corners (like the ants). This is a great thing to happen. It relieves the tension of having all the weight on one shoulder and creates a spaciousness that just feels awesome.

     1. Absolutely Eduardo. I am feeling this more and more. My job requires me to be the leader most of the time. But what I am discovering is that if I lead the team in the right way, nurturing, inspiring, appreciating and validating all around me in equality, then we can create a team, that I am not actually having to lead – in the traditional way of; full responsibility, burden, pressure, expectation etc…. Sure I may be the one who occasionally redirects or has the final say….but the stresses and strains are going, allowing….space

     2. And what I used to feel when I lead was loneliness. A horrible sense of loneliness. That no-one else cared as much as me, that no-one else was as committed as me. But what I have recently seen is that this loneliness is in fact me keeping the team out, me not being everything that I am, expressing in full, being totally open, vulnerable and equal. Do that and most step up massively. Do that and you have an amazing team who will support the purpose to the n’th degree.

226. Well said Ariana. Just sit in one session of parliament and it is nothing but combative. It is a wonder that any decisions are made for the good of all from such a self-driven and catastrophic mess…
     It starts with us all doesn’t it. From a willingness to connect with what true leadership and working together can be… with no perfection, but the willingness to recognise where personal agenda blocks the way to truly embracing all that working together can be. The learning can be ‘quite a curve’ – yet, if we recognise that all that we do impacts on ‘the all’, what other way is there to truly go?
     Ants have no issue with personal responsibility or juxtaposing for ‘position’. They simply attune to what’s needed and get on with it. What a symbol indeed we have right under our noses (or perhaps our ‘feet’!).

227. ‘The role of an ant may change with age and depending upon the needs of the colony they simply do what is needed and thus do not consider any role as less.’ I love that ants do not consider any role as less, they obviously know that without the other the task at hand can’t be completed, and so it simply does not matter who is doing what, everybody is needed in the team so nobody is more important or less.

228. This blog really makes me consider how many little messages and lessons I am missing moment to moment in life, I am definitely inspired to pay greater attention to the finer details, how many little ants teaching us vital lessons are we missing!

     1. I agree Meg, there are so many awe inspiring moments in life that we do not stand in awe of and miss them instead because we are busy with something that bothers us, excites us or holds us in the past or future.

        1. I definitely do not live my life in enough awe, magic is happening every moment, and I would say I notice 1% of the time!

229. Ants may not know how to type on a computer, how to speak English, or understand all the science and laws of the physical world. But they do know how to be in Brotherhood together and this to me is a powerful reflection that true intelligence is not just in what you know but also about how you live with yourself and with everyone

     1. Joshua the image of a typing ant comes to me as I read that and smile, however families, teams, companies and nations could do well to pay attention to how ants operate and work together in brotherhood. The unfortunately thing is at the moment ants are closer to being able to type than there are companies that work in true brotherhood.

        1. Yes, so true! And ants have not even evolved with hands yet to press the keys, so companies working in true brotherhood must be many many many years away based on the way we are currently living

230. Reading your blog again Marilka I too have a deepened respect for ants. I also now know, thanks to the teachings of Universal Medicine how true group work is possible for humans too.

231. Imagine if as one humanity we didn’t hold any position as higher than another, and truly saw it as just different people bringing different qualities and strengths to their work and lives. This feels like true support for all. Ants have got it down to a tea/tee? -and so many other animals are living in way more harmony than we have in our so called advanced societies…

232. It is very humbling what we can learn from an ant. Just goes to show that if we are open to it we can be constantly learning and developing.

233. After reading this blog again and parts of this thread, I will never look at ants in the same way again, nor squash one so easily without thought. The reflection is an amazingly rich one thank you.

234. I attended some leadership training yesterday. We looked at how to influence people and the top 6 ways that have been found to do this. Although we had some useful discussions as a group, what was missing in this presentation was a foundation of energetic integrity and awareness of how much our intentions changes that. If we are coming with any intention for ourselves, the integrity is lost. ‘Effective leaders’ might be able to get people to do what they want, but great leaders live their knowing of our equality like the ants.

     1. That is exactly what I also picked out of the blog. That we are equally leaders. With this as intention there immediately comes a sense of equal responsibility. I am facilitating a team at this moment and I can see what happens when either side -the leader or the employees – refrain from taking this element of responsibility as an ongoing aspect of teamwork. Then complaining and finger pointing becomes a usual element of daily worklife. In fact it is a missing out on the fact we all have a part to play -equally- regardless the role we have. The ants show us that there is no wavering in their contribution, but to just get on with it. Have you ever seen a bunch if ants stop and groan&moan about the Queen ant? Hilarious scene just thinking about it.

235. For a long time I wanted to be a leader. A leader is seen, is important, etc. Where I actually lately discover how the people I consider the ‘best’ leaders are actually the ones that are very humble and always themselves. They’re not the smarty pants. But the exact opposite. There’s nothing glorifying in being a leader. It is actually a huge responsibility ‘being a leader’. For myself I’ve noticed that ‘wanting to be a leader’ is a great distraction / tool to avoid taking responsibility. How amazing would we all work together if leadership would just mean being yourself and follow whatever is impulsed to do at any given time. Just as the ants are working together. They’re allready their own natural leader themselves to begin with. That’s the only way that they are able to work so miraculously well together.

236. True leadership “I knew what I had to do – to stay focused on purpose, to bring everyone with me in my team as equal leaders, and to support a way of working together where everyone was evolving.” This is something that has came to me recent, leadership does feel like it is the inspiration of true equality lived. It is not the way I have often experienced in school, work or life generally however it feels true to me. This way enables us all to step up and not hold back, none of us are left feeling disempowered or less, we all get to evolve and fulfil our potential.

237. And I wonder if ants have the strength to lift 20 times their weight because they allow the energy of brotherhood and therefore the universe to move through them .

238. What ever role we having in a team we need to commit otherwise the team can’t work harmoniously.

239. So true Anna, they constantly teach us about almost anything, we just have to open our eyes and see what is happening all around us.

     1. The magic of God is everywhere…..I have recently opened my eyes to this, and it is incredible what I have found.

240. The ants come together naturally in a way we only see with humans when there is a crisis or disaster occurring. It is a wonder that it takes this level of suffering before we will help each other out, it just doesn’t seem very intelligent in comparison to the “lowly” ant. Perhaps if we could admit we aren’t very intelligent then our intelligence might grow to live with the level of harmony of a colony of ants, now that would be ambition and mighty intelligence.

241. Doing what is needed based on our connection to a collective purpose is the ‘bees knees’ and the ‘antz pantz’ – I couldn’t resist!

     1. I’m glad you couldn’t resist adding bit of humour to the mix Sarah Davis. Bring it on! Harmony & Humour – sounds like a good combination for us all to develop.

242. After an amazing day with friends organising an event for the public to attend. We all came together early and all set about what was required to be done to warmly welcome incoming guests. This blog came to mind as like those busy ants we all knew what had to be done, we all naturally got on with the tasks at hand, knowing and using our skills and with a gentle focus supported each other and the bigger picture came together beautifully. The word that sums up this union of group work was brotherhood. No one person stood out – we were all one of the same all working together.

243. A wonderful blog. A leader is not greater in worth than any other part of their team; rather they are skilled and charged with a responsibility to never stop leading so as to inspire. There must be an understanding and allowance for leadership where required (in almost every facet of life) in order for constant inspiration to evoke evolution in those being led.

244. When I read about the ants changing leadership it made me realise how we are all leaders and if we can come to an acceptance of this in ourselves we will know when it is time to step up and lead and when it is time to support another in this role and be led. We all bring different skill sets so it makes absolute sense that no-one can lead everything and we all have a part to play.

     1. Beautifully written tonisteenson, the fact we all know and then can step aside for the impulse to be there from another is exactly what nature is sharing with us, not only one but all are needed.

     2. Great comment Toni. As I watch the geese flying overhead, they change leaders all the time, each in turn playing their part to lead the rest as they fly on to their destination. No long discussions or infighting, they just do what’s necessary for the whole.

245. The observation about the shared leadership between the ants is really interesting. Being a leader can feel onerous, as in there can be a lot of responsibility assigned to one person. Sharing the load feels like a far more sensible way to approach the task of leadership.

     1. I agree Victoria, I feel the tendency for a leader to ‘carry the burden’ is completely unnecessary. It feels like a bit of a set up to keep oneself above the others or in a kind of stress or identification, just another drama and elevated state.

246. Yes, life would be a lot different if we could work and live together in the same quality of brotherhood the ants represent.

     1. Yes it would Victoria

247. There is no self in the ant world! What an awesome mastery they represent.

248. Simply doing what is needed. I agree Vanessa, we can take big lessons from a tiny ant.

249. It is really simple what the Ants reflect to us – To be all that we are with Everyone. You can not have self with this and we naturally want to work together with out trying to dominate just with the ease and the joy that you are with those people. I have experienced this and it feels magical.

250. Brotherhood…. the phrase ‘gone and long forgotten’ comes to mind. Thank God for the ants and Serge Benhayon, now brotherhood is being remembered and is coming back!

251. Size isn’t everything….

252. Something to chew on… I imagine it will take us a while, that it is not all about ‘me’ can be a tough pill to swallow.

     1. Spot on Lisa – the ‘me’ can get in the way of ‘us’.

253. Nature, it has so much to say…

254. There are so many different animals that can teach us so many different life lessons. They can teach us so much if we choose to watch and learn and listen.

     1. I agree we can learn a lot from nature.

        1. Not only learn a lot from nature but also learn a lot from what nature has to offer us. There are offerings all the time as to what we see and the timing of what we see. Its beautiful to feel the messages that are given to us.

     2. Yes animals can teach us so much; that is there purpose platted-in with their own evolution. I would however point-out that animals are animals, many parallels can be drawn, but they are not humans and therefore there are grand differences we must also appreciate in order to take the full scope of any learning an animal may reflect to us.

        1. This is very true and I was sharing this with my mum this morning. How much animals are there to reflect some beautiful life lessons to us but they are just simply animals. The pure magic and beauty that happens sometimes with the relationship and connection with animals feel sometimes out of this world 🙂

255. What I’ve realised is that the commitment to the whole comes from a true and loving commitment to myself, not in a selfish way but with a knowing that how I treat myself and how I live affects everybody.

     1. That’s awesome Annie. How we are with ourselves is in no way less a part of the equation.

     2. Absolutely, commitment and love starts with self, then we are able to share what we have built, and, ‘knowing that how I treat myself and how I live affects everybody.’

     3. So very true, Annie. To be aware of this is life changing, as it changes the way in which we see life, and how we are in it.

256. I love what you shared here about everyone taking a turn to lead. It shows that no matter what our job description or ranking is whether it be in our job, business or family, we are all leaders. Everything we do affects another person. If I sit back and expect another person to take more of the load and sit comfortably in my ‘role’, then it impacts the rest of the group, which also impacts me. When I go into a meeting with the purpose of benefiting the rest of the team/group, then I hold back a lot less and it is easy to express as I am not just thinking of me, but the whole.

     1. I too experience similar Annie, that when I am in a group situation, I find it so easy to express when my intention is to benefit the whole group as opposed to only thinking about self.

     2. Really well said Annie. Sitting back and letting others do the work is not mindful of the whole and difficult for the one (or the few) left carrying the load.

     3. Some great points here Annie, we do affect the whole, all we do, or do not do, affects everyone, including our thoughts and energy.

257. Whether we turn our eyes to the stars, or choose to stop and peer under a log in the forest, life is always prompting us to consider that there is something very divine and orderly about the way the world is. The more you look at the detail of life, the more the proposition that life was created by an accidental lightning strike in a pool of mud all the more ridiculous.

258. These words stuck me too Shirley-Ann. Purpose is what we are wired for too, however we, or should I say I, can see how I spend too much time tending my wings (self interested) and not putting them to work. When I am focused and purposeful, the world around me changes and I am one with it, working in it like my friend and mentor, the ant!

259. After reading the blog I also have a new found respect for the ant.

     1. Me too!

260. Watching how ants work together is very humbling and I find it incredible how their roles will change according to their age. This little creature, often stamped on when it’s inside our homes, has so much to teach us. It’s also not a one off, bees are similar also how they work very hard and change their roles too, the animal kingdom shows us lots when we are prepared to look.

     1. Yes Gill, the wonders of nature are there to show us so much beautiful wisdom, if we only care to stop and take a moment to observe what is right there in front of us everyday.

261. Beautiful reflection Vanessa McHardy. The harmony of feeling and doing is our beingness in action. How many of us waste our lives in the quagmire of thoughts??

262. What inspires me concerning the brotherhood of the ants is that there is no attachement concerning being a leader or a supporter, because they know which one is needed in the moment. For me the learning is not to feel less as a supporter but also not to hold back to lead.

     1. Great comment kerstinsalzer15 so true.

     2. There is no attachment in regards to being a leader or supportive because both have their equal place, and you can’t have one without the other.

     3. There is no attachment to roles, all are valued equally and the connection is such that everything flows and the supports are just there. The humble ant has much to offer. I agree truly inspiring.

263. It’s amazing how every animal is totally dedicated to its task at hand, like if you observe a bee it has such focus and dedication to its hard work, I don’t know what that work is – but I’m sure it’s important. Observe any creature and it lives with the same dedication to its life and work – we definitely have much to learn.

     1. This dedication to life and work is something we humans have invariably left on the way side. This level of commitment is rarely seen today in our societies, and yet Serge Benhayon and his family have shown me, through their way of living, that it is humanly possible too.

        1. Yes, Jenny, Serge Benhayon and his family are a true inspiration and role model that commitment and working together in brotherhood is possible for humanity.

     2. Yes we may have a long way to go to see such simple dedication and commitment to purpose in our human frame of reference to life

        1. We as a race spend so much time in our heads evaluating what is is we are supposed to be doing. Instead of just doing it – now.

     3. So very well said Meg, we have a lot to learn from the consistent dedications animals have to what needs to be done.

     4. Yes the dedication to their task at hand always makes me smile in wonderment and joy. It offers us much in regards to our own commitment to life and our service to humanity. Nature is always inspiring me and my life everyday.

        1. Dedicated Ants; it would make for a great album title. Wouldn’t it be lovely many more people in the world could enjoy the wonderful reflection of insects and animals, rather than being oblivious to the moving art nature reflects at every turn.

     5. Yes this dedication and I am sure conscious presence is inspiring. They don’t waste any time waiting for the time they are able to retire!!

     6. Great point Meg. And the bee doesn’t get distracted, it stays on task and if there is something that may get in the way of it’s job it just moves on to where it can work uninterrupted. So simple and yet so powerful in it’s example.

        1. I love this point too robynjones11. The ability for the ant to just move to where it can work without getting interrupted shows the level of responsibility it is holding for its part of the team. Truly inspirational to all.

        2. And I am sure it doesn’t move on in a reaction either!!

     7. Beautiful and inspiring observation Meg, indeed we have much to learn and the Benhayon’s are one family who are sharing this way with us all. Seeing ourselves as equal parts of the whole brings back our true purpose and joy for life.

264. “The role of an ant may change with age and depending upon the needs of the colony they simply do what is needed and thus do not consider any role as less.” For me, the greatest teaching from the ant is that no matter how big or small the job is at hand they are both equally important and there is no comparison between any role. One of my roles is looking after the home and I can still go into the feeling of making this job as less and therefore I can get quite tired. Time to step up in honouring myself in this role and to live knowing the impact this has in setting a foundation of love for all who enter it.

     1. Caroline I was just going to highlight this sentence too. Yes, it’s wonderful to feel how every responsibility we have is equally as important and requires as much commitment and presence as the next. It’s not to say there aren’t priorities but that the quality we do things with is equally as important.

     2. I love what you have added here Caroline, it is so easy to go into feeling less, I have noticed this in myself, I am still trying to define myself by what i do rather than what I bring and the quality in everything I do equally.

        1. This is a great point Nicole that you have shared. The game of what we do rather than the quality that we bring” often leaves us feeling less, not contributing to the team which we know just fuels doubt rather then celebrating what we bring to the whole.

     3. Absolutely Caroline, the role of caring for a home is an honour. I didn’t always see it this way, but I do now. I love bringing care and attention to detail into my home and creating a space for all the other (team members) to feel supported in. The foundation in any home cannot be strong without someone/s holding this.

     4. ” the role of the ant may change…….” I too noticed this sentence. I was a stay at home a mother, back when it was more common, and at times felt my role was less than that of those who went out to work and earned money. Comparison serves no one, least of all ourselves. Doing what is needed, at any time of life, regardless of age or gender, is something we can all do and it’s not just about the doing, but the being as we do. Honouring whatever it is we do, the quality, and who we are is so important.

     5. Yes Caroline the role of home duties is just as honourable as any other area in lives we express. It all Matters doesn’t it?

     6. Yes each and every one of us makes up the whole of the community and each role is as important as another. Well said.

     7. Caroline, I feel you have raised a good point in relation to looking after the home as this is an ‘unpaid’ job. Unpaid work has got a stigma attached to it and comes with a lesser status much of the time. But just because there is no exchange of money does not make a job less than a paid one. They are equal. And this is what I feel the ants show us in spades. All jobs are of equal value, as are we. We are all of equal value in our essence. It is up to us to connect to this and lives this… and then it doesn’t matter what type of job we do and whether it is paid or unpaid, as we are doing it with all of who we are, and that is GOLD.

     8. Beautiful call Caroline, no role is less than another, we each have the ability to bring a true quality to whatever we do. Cleaning the home is something I so enjoy now as when I do it with love and care what is left behind for all to feel is that quality of love and care.

265. ‘They supported each other every step of the way’. I love this line and it reminds me to never hold back when supporting another and to welcome openly the support from another. I have very much doubted myself as to what I could bring to another but I am learning that these thoughts I have introduced into my body and are not who I am. We must never underestimate or undervalue ourselves in what we bring to another… there is much for me to ponder on here.

266. I agree Adele, nature offers a wealth of reflections for us to learn from as we choose to return to live more naturally as who we truly are in the grandness and greatness of the harmony of the universe.
     “There is a responsibility in the grand harmony of the universe that is looking to be restored, and this responsibility begins with living equality and interconnectedness. Nothing in this world is too small to be taken into consideration, and the truth is we are all here for each other—but how far away from this are we living in our human world, as compared to the grand scheme of things? So who is really the intelligent species?”

267. I love nature and have seen programmes on ants, they are incredible. Gosh if we lived as they did just in terms of brotherhood, commitment and community it would be pretty amazing.

268. Such a great question Lee, do we see certain roles are more valuable and therefore us as doing more when we do them? In many cases yes, and when we do we miss out on the beauty of the whole and actually it highlights that we’ve made it about the individual, rather than the whole as the whole could not ever look at any part of itself as less.

269. Nature offers us so much in the way of non-judgmental reflections the humbleness and absolute wisdom ants offer us in the way of teamwork and true leadership. The simple rhythm and flow ants live in is amazing so many ants living together is such a small space yet they live in harmony.

270. Your comment reminded me of a similar experience, Julie. After a Universal Medicine webcast everyone helped put the room back to it’s original state, if people didn’t know where things went they asked. It all happened so seamlessly, efficiently and in such harmony. So much so that the harmony could be felt in the room afterwards. Just beautiful.

271. Often there is identification with a role. The ants do not identify with being this role or that role, they do what is needed at any given time. Whether you are making strategic company decisions or cleaning the floor, the purpose is the same and both are needed for the company. And I like your point about appreciating others in their roles Lee. We all make up the whole. Everyone of us plus a part in all that we do.

272. The part that got me most was that ants simply do what is needed. There is no self involved and they see the bigger picture. No job is considered less – how could it be when they are all working together and each role supports everyone else. The humble ant is not to be squished!

273. How awesome is that, there was no need for you to read a book on leadership, you simply took what was presented to you and read and learned from it.

     1. To me, that is exactly what nature is for us Esther, and therefore it is such a joy to be in nature, in that we are constantly reflected that which we are a part of, and from where we come. The perfect harmony, and the obedience to the universal laws that are lived by nature, reflect to us that we are subjected to these same laws as well. Whether we accept it or not, the fact is that we are. Perhaps nature will continuously reflect this fact to us until we accept this, and adopt it as a value in our lives to grow and evolve from.

274. Nature is so grand – it literally has an answer for everything we need.

     1. So true Lee, when we are open to it nature is the grand study book for us to read and to learn from. Everything that we need to learn in any moment is reflected at the right moment, if we are open to see it. Therefore, we have to become aware of the fact that nature is there as a reflection from God for us to be studied, as a means to assist us in our evolutionary way back to where we come from, being part of the grander whole of which nature is a mere reflection.

275. Wow, amazing creatures indeed. We sure can learn so much about Ants. We have ants in the millions in our home at the moment. I will be viewing this in a new way now, after reading this blog, thank you.

276. It feels as though humans haven’t been able to have equal leaders as we have been hurt by competition being set up in the education system and by also making ourselves feel less than others. It appears to me that we have not taken responsibility for ourselves and the happenings around us, therefore allowing others to take charge, and that those in charge can automatically feel more powerful. Thus the ‘equal leaders’ marker set by ants is seldom able to be lived by humans. If we all saw how important each role we have in society is, we could once again all work together with a common purpose (in true brotherhood).

277. I never realised how often the messages of God were around me until it was mentioned by a practitioner that she didn’t know anyone who saw as many owls as me. I now realise that God is in fact communicating with me and each owl represented a different message and it was for me to feel into what each one was. I am building my connection and confidence in what these messages mean and since being more open to this I now see so much from nature. It really is so amazing and beautiful to be communicated with through nature.

278. a true leader knows that they are going to inspire by their very being, and when a true leader really knows themselves, they will always bring out the best in those that they lead, because they will always be feeling the bigger picture.

279. There is a certain level of responsibility that comes with leadership isn’t there? Whilst discussing this with a child we discovered that to be the team captain the person should care for each and every team member in equalness. This felt like one of the key factors in any leadership role. The team leader is never superior but always supports all the team to bring there all to the team. The leaders are not so much bossy but inspirational. Also the leading role is something to be shared and interchanged, like the ants to allow the strengths and flavours of each person to be appreciated and supportive for all the team. 🙂 🙂 🙂

280. I love the fact that ants represent team work. This is what I am learning to appreciate at work. My manageress told me yesterday that we needed to make £1000 in the next hour to reach our target for the day. I felt myself go into reaction a bit and took on the pressure. I realised later that taking on the pressure was completely unnecessary as we hit our target no problem simply by working as a team. I realised I had taken on the task of hitting the target thinking that I had to do it on my own, and of course it is obvious that I don’t! We all work together, and everything gets done. It is an amazing feeling.

281. Love what you’ve said here matildaclark – ‘Humility, clarity and no delay…understanding the part they play as integral and essential to the whole.’ It can’t get much clearer than that.

282. Humanity could learn so much from ants.

283. I had to smile when I read your comment, because after reading the blog and appreciating the way they live, I also felt how annoying I found it when they found their way into the house.

284. How can you find any fault with an ant? They should be gods to us from the way we behave as compared with them!

285. Today this line stood out for me: “They supported each other every step of the way.” Our world would be amazing if we chose to support each other consistently, instead of back-biting, gossip, jealousy and competition. The whole of media would be transformed as would each of our individual lives. Working for the whole, not for self. We have a lot to learn from ants.

     1. Yes Sueq2012, this is significant, “They supported each other every step of the way.” and everything you have said! It shows the power and love that support can bring to humanity, but true support, not the support where we martyr ourselves for another.

286. I agree there is a tremendous purposeful way that ants have of not hesitating and just sensing what needs to be done and acting on it. They never appear rushed either but steadily move in a consistently fluid way – a kind of rhythm that we can all take inspiration from.

     1. True Andrew there is no rush but a huge amount of purpose!

287. I Love working with people in harmony, getting on with what needs to be done and having some playful times together. No one needs to lead, we can all be responsible for our own bit and come together and be all of who we are together. Such love and openness that is natural and what we deep down crave.

288. Absolutely Tricianicholson, the students of the Livingness are definitely an example of brotherhood. All we have to do is take a close look at these comments and blogs how life is so easily shared, lived through true expression allowing everyone else to then be open to the same choices.

289. There is so much to appreciate ourselves for and without appreciation there is no confirmation. Expressing our natural way – leading or following, both equally important – is the key.

290. The ant reminds me very much of that other great reflection in nature – the humble bee. Humanity could do worse than to study these two great systems of nature at work.

     1. Yes, absolutely Adam, when we stop and really look at natural systems, and how life is lived in our environment excluding human beings, it is very educational, showing us naturally how things actually work to their potential and optimum – efficiently, harmoniously, and with a purpose….each part plays a significant part even in the most humblest of form. Take one part away and it all falls down.

        1. For sure, nature is one of our greatest teachers, from the Tsumani to the smallest of ants, and the spiralling evolution of the galaxies and stars – constantly calling out to us to understand and appreciate the enormity of that which we in truth belong to.

291. I also have often observed ants and been in awe of their team work and purpose. I recently watched a colony travel up and down a branch and watched as they all pretty much followed the same path on the branch. I particular enjoyed watching them occasionally come head to head, they would both gently manoeuvre themselves so that they passed each other, no fight to be the ant that got right of way, it was a mutual supportive movement to the side, to support each other and the team. There are so many signs in nature available for us to observe which offer deep insights into life.

292. So true Henrietta. As humans we really get our stuff in the way of working together. I imagine that if we worked like the ants do we would have a utopian way of living or ‘heaven on earth’.

     1. Our true purpose here on earth would be felt more easily if we lived in harmony and got our own stuff out of the way.

293. The picture of the ants just alternating the leadership over their way is inspirational just through reading it here and feeling this quality. Through this I can feel and have a view on the possibility for us human beings to work and live in the same way. Sometimes it occurs naturally or just unfolds with a group of people and then the trust and rhythm and beautiful movement, that appears is just amazing – like a dance. Like everyone is being carried and guided from a greater strength that emanates from everyone and from the group as a whole and from what they do. I will ponder about what is needed, to work and live more like this? A dance of love, a dance of trust, a divine dance…

294. This is returning the word ‘leader’ to its true meaning. I have always had an impression of a leader being somewhere up front, in charge, slightly out of reach. To consider and be inspired by leadership as a shared, respectful and ever changing role is opening up my world and relationships beyond measure.

     1. Those are beautiful qualities you share on what leadership is matildaclark. I am especially appreciating how within a group we can get to a certain point and very naturally this calls for a change of lead who will bring qualities to the group that are needed at this new point in it’s evolution. It is a natural and deeply respectful process.

295. It is an incredible stop moment to just take a moment and imagine how our world would look if we behaved in this way, together, as one. There is the beauty of feeling the possibility and the potential along with the sad realisation of how far we have come and how much work is to be, but can be, done.

296. Yes Ray, the world waits patiently, never judging or needing you to ‘get anything’ but always ready to reflect everything that is needed back to which ever point of light requires it at any given time, true magic.

297. Well said Ray, “the whole world is communicating with us all the time,” therefore we are surrounded by symbolism confirming us all of time. All we have to do is to be truly open, connected and willing to embrace all without holding back. The alternative is to separate, isolate and miss out on all the love that is on offer. Now that can be a lonely place; a lonely place of our own making!

     1. Thank you kathleenbaldwin and I agree but where would one start with this if we are so used to living a certain way? I see this as a great place to start, http://www.unimedliving.com. A practical and clear website that is leading the way.

298. It is truly incredible to observe nature and particularly ants when they are in their element, it is interesting isn’t it how Ants can have such systematic cohesive teamwork that is just natural to them, but as humans we have to put “effort” into it?

     1. That is a interesting question you raise Oliver. Because is it true that we humans have to put so much effort into systematic cohesive teamwork? Or will it naturally be there when we all live in connection – brotherhood – as well?

     2. Very true Oliver – could it be that as humans we are fighting our natural cycles and that we are working against the flow of the universe rather than with it?

299. Wow imagine if like ants we dropped competing against each other and felt the impulse from within to join others and work together, for the good of the “whole Colony”.
     We would be amazing!

     1. I agree Nicole, harmony and brotherhood in action!

300. When things get really bad we can let go of self and allow ourselves to feel we are actually one and we all want and need to work together all the time.

301. Reading this title again made me smile. Instantly thinking about the amazing potential we have to all work together. 6 billion people. How amazing would that be. How much Joy would that be? And how much natural responsibility would we take for ourselves AND others? Wow. It’s worth smiling and contemplating.

     1. Awesome comment Floris and it made me stop and smile as I suddenly also felt the potential of 6 billion people working together as a team in complete unity with no fight over being in charge, no complaint that one job was better than another, and noone left behind. Very worth smiling and contemplating thank you.

     2. This is a powerful comment Floris, as this is our potential and as such our future.

     3. Wow indeed Floris what an amazing prospect.

302. Absolutely agree Simon, opportunities for evolution are constant and just keep coming, it is simply up to us to read and enjoy the magic we are surrounded by.

303. The ant – what a symbol of supreme equality and working together. If we were all a little bit more ant our whole world would be radically different.

     1. Very true Dean. And the question that comes to mind is, are we really that different from the ants, or did we choose individuality that pulls us away from our naturally way of being together in brotherhood just like the ants?

        1. I think we were just like ants Diana.

        2. Yes Dean, I think so too. And it is time to live in this natural way of being in brotherhood again.

     2. More ‘ant’ and less ‘can’t’, Dean! 🙂

        1. We are naturally wired for just that! We love harmony and brotherhood. We must ‘ant up’ or we are doomed as humanity. I’m committing to ensuring that I don’t do any ‘white anting’ today!

304. I find it interesting how very few of us are self aware enough to know that life is not simply only about the individual, who tries to scramble on top of another to “win”, get recognition or to gain. Many of us live life and make decisions at the expense of others, not with all of us in mind at all. What is being shared here is a gorgeous opportunity to reflect on our one humanity as a group, how we can choose to work together not in tension with one another and what the results of this could be.

305. There is something truly special when human beings work together, and if we offer each other even the smallest slice of what ants can create in terms of teamwork and harmony then we have something to behold. I have felt many times that teamwork and togetherness and often wondered why it is that us humans cannot sustain it consistently in the way that comes so naturally to the ant.

306. I too have always been impressed how ants are full of purpose and do not waiver in any way. When a path is blocked or they lose some of their team, others step in and pick up what is needed to be done or they find another way around to return to their intended task.

307. Leadership can look so different in so many ways. Every person in an organisation has something to offer at different times or insight into what is needed for things to work in a harmonious way.

     1. Yes Jenny, we don’t appreciate in ourselves and with each other, that every person can offer leadership in what they have to offer, we are so powerful and have enormous potential.

308. “I knew what I had to do – to stay focused on purpose, to bring everyone with me in my team as equal leaders, and to support a way of working together where everyone was evolving.” What a beautiful way to bring leadership – to a true way of leading, treating everyone as an equal. We are all needed and each one of us a piece of the vast jigsaw of life – every single piece is needed.

     1. Yes sueq2012, it is very beautiful when we work in harmony with one another. When I feel connected, there is nothing but an equalness with another. I love the harmonious feeling when I’m in the kitchen preparing a meal with others for a family gathering. I am focused and may suggest to them what’s to be done but I’m consistently observing myself and others in the process… I am left pondering as to whether this is one of my strengths.

309. Very true Fumiyo, it is our own lack of self appreciation and self worth that contributes to the unpleasant team dynamics that occur in the work place. When every team member appreciates themselves and what they contribute, it cuts the competition and comparison dead and people can truly start working for the whole. I am so appreciative of Universal Medicine and Serge Benhayon for reminding me how to truly appreciate me and all I bring to the world, that in turn enables me to fully appreciate the gifts of other people and what they contribute. Individually we are amazing, collectively we are awesome, but as a whole, humanity has yet to discover just how awesome we really are. Roll out some more Ant lessons.

310. At the primary school I work in we have animals and character traits to describe our values and ways of being together. To encourage group work we talk about being “a team ant.” From this blog I am inspired to take this deeper with my pupils and to watch some clips about how ants cooperate and work together. I am sure we would all find it very inspiring and to see if we could apply some of what we learn to the classroom!

     1. This sounds like fun rachelmurtagh! Studying ants at school and applying that to life – how amazing is that!

311. I love the way that these messages from nature are so well known, so much so that in talking with a child recently they were expelling to me the different qualities of an ant, how they symbolise team work and strength and how at school you can get an award for being like an ant. This is amazing and just goes to show that as people we do know where to find true inspiration.

312. I love this blog. It brings such a humbleness to the wisdom nature is reflecting to us and how much we can learn from it as we are open to see it. Life becomes full and vibrant again if you look at the world and nature like this.

313. I love to reread this blog, as I so much can feel the brotherhood and harmony in it.

     1. Yes Kerstin and they make it look so simple because it is, each has its role and a purpose for the whole…simple order for the whole!

314. This is so true Sarah and you made me laugh and situation 3. could have been that you were looking up at the sky at time squashed the ants but seen the eagle battling off the magpies. It never fails to amaze me that when we are open the perfect piece of magic made specifically for us in that moment constellates.

     1. Situation 3 is very funny Kathleenbaldwin and yes there is always something waiting, if we miss the first message – they just keep coming until we wake up and notice.

315. Organisational teams could learn a lot from this blog and from taking a humble pill by learning how ants work together to achieve their goals and stay on purpose.

     1. True Sandra! How often do we dismiss what nature has to offer by way of reflection, considering that our ‘intelligence’ is greater than theirs, when it’s really nature that has it far more together, keeping it far more focused, simple, and without competition or complaint!

        1. Absolutely true Angela sometimes I think we are too busy being busy we miss so much of what natures reflects.

     2. Maybe if we appreciated ourselves more we wouldn’t feel the need to ‘stand out’, the need to prove ourselves for recognition, to compensate for our lack of self worth. We would be so full of ourselves, we wouldn’t have any needs, it would be enough to just be ourselves and work together in harmony and brotherhood.

     3. So true Sandra, So-many people miss out on an opportunity to grow and take leadership as one person is delegated that job. If we all follow the ants ways of sharing the load, who knows how society will evolve.

        1. As the ants so beautifully show us, anyone can take leadership in any role they have. If one is not, that is a deliberate choice.

316. We are capable of so much more. We so underestimate, undervalue, under love and care for ourselves. We need a relationship of self love and care, without it we are like dry riverbeds waiting for rain.

     1. We certainly do underestimate ourselves and nature Matthew and I love that the antidote is love and appreciation !

        1. Ant-i-dote indeed!

        2. I feel that I am only skirting round the edges of truly loving and appreciating the magnitude of what is out there for us to love and appreciate. The enormity of what is on offer I am only just becoming consciously aware of! Loving the play on words… the playfulness keeps things light and real!!

     2. Well said Matthew and I love your analogy ‘we are like dry riverbeds waiting for rain’.

     3. I completely agree with you Matthew, ‘We are capable of so much more. We so underestimate, undervalue, under love and care for ourselves’. And this is the common way to be in society – the ‘norm’, to know our true worth and to love and adore ourselves is very rare in society and is seen as ‘big headed’ or ‘full of ourselves’ even though this in is fact the most natural way to be.

     4. Yes Matthew – ‘we are capable of so much more.’ We have learnt too well the game of keeping ourselves small and worthless. What this story on ants is reflecting to us is the same as Serge Benhayon is reflecting and inspiring with his teachings and with the way he lives – that indeed, we are capable of endlessly much more.

     5. I love your analogy Matthew as I think of when those dry river beds are watered they are an abundance of life and beauty.

     6. Beautifully expressed Matthew, and yes we are capable of so much more. We certainly could learn from the ants.

     7. We are capable of so much more when we work together and don’t make it about self. We need a relationship of self love and care and that is a strong foundation for service. When it comes to service if we make it about the all and simply do what is needed, it is amazing what is possible.

     8. I just heard an eminent Australian woman leader speaking with other women. She expressed that ‘the most important journey we will ever take is to the centre of ourselves where we find stillness and the resources we need in our lives.’ Every one of us knows deep within that we must lead ourselves first and discover the well within that is ever present and like the rain, keeps our riverbeds flowing.. Thank you Matthew!

        1. I agree bernadetteglass… We all do know deep within that we are to lead the way with ourselves first otherwise we are forever at the mercy of everything and everyone around us.

        2. Ants showing us (human beings), how leadership is done, such is the grace of nature.

        3. Very true Bernadetteglass. This knowing is so utterly innate within us all that to not feel it we must actively deny it.

     9. Agree Bina Pattel, and taking this into work – what would Recruitment and Selection/hiring be like if a pre-requisite to any new job was the examination of the potential employee’s self-care thus far, and if this was low, then as part of induction they receive refresher course, and that even this formed part of their personal development plans/career progression into leadership positions. What type of workforce would we have, and how would we expand companies, business, even economies through simple application of self-care?

     10. Yes Bina – learning the importance of self-care and self-love in my 40’s and 50’s has been truly transformational. So, being supported to know it and live it from school days would surely engender real change in our societies. Of this there is no doubt.

     11. My body sings when i ponder on the potential of a “self care and self responsibility” package being a compulsory requirement for young people today – revolutionary, evolutionary, game changing.

     12. Matthew, that’s a perfect way of describing it! It’s exactly how I lived my life before I learnt what it meant to self-care and self-love. I was always desperate for someone to come along that would make everything alright…i was in perpetual limbo.

317. The whole world is always communicating with us, how much do we indeed want to listen. At the moment we mostly have our hands over our eyes, well I certainly do, but the messages will always be there and god is very patient with us all.

     1. Hello Stephen G and well said, “The whole world is always communicating with us, how much do we indeed want to listen.” Just the appreciation of the fact you know this is already the key to ‘seeing’ more. Never discount yourself in what you see, even if at first it seems like you are blind. Appreciate every little part, because from there you can build to the next part. Discount yourself and there is no building but more an endless circle that will always lead you back to the same point. Thank you Stephen.

318. Nature offers us every reflection we need and I love observing ants and the way they work together too. They offer the reflection of what it means to leave self out of the way and work one unified for the one purpose that benefits the all.

     1. Carolien, suggesting to most people that they leave self out of the way would leave most people in a blind panic and asking the question ‘but what would be left of me?’. However as we gradually reduce the role that self plays in our lives we get to feel a gigantian version of ourselves that we are in truth connected to. In short we get to feel that when self fades then the God that we and everyone else is comes to the forefront of our existence.

        1. Alexis, I know initially it seems strange or threatening to let go of the self but the ants show perfectly that when we work together for the benefit of all everyone gets taken care of, not at the expense of another, as is often the case with self, but as a result of everyone working together for all equally. It is the latter that we have little experience with and so it is hard to trust in the fact that if we do not fend for our own rights we will be taken care of. It will take time and a lot of practice to let go of our self protecting behaviours but as the ants reflect to us tirelessly, we can get there.

     2. So true Carolien. Whenever I watch ants any thought of individuality disappears, I become aware of and fascinated with feeling and observing a purpose and an order that is bigger than the individuals and incredible team work. Nature does indeed teach us a lot if we take a moment to allow ourselves to connect and be inspired.

319. I agree Alison and one day we will live with this level of service to each other.

320. Yes Gill, the ants show us that it does not take a big brain to work in brotherhood, it simply takes commitment to the well being of the colony, or in our case, humanity.

321. I felt that to be important too Matthew, perhaps when there is a question of substance and an openness to an answer, it is right there in nature before us.

322. Don’t you just love it – one of the smallest creatures on earth, the humble ant, being a role model for the most intelligent species on earth.

     1. I do love it, Vicky.. 🙂 Ants as role models for us.

     2. Yeah Vicky it is awesome and also baffling that we can be so much more ‘intelligent’ in brain matter but are so much less harmonious.

     3. Spot on Vicky – we humans have so much to learn!

     4. When you put it like that – its pretty amazing. It reminds me of just how much magic there is in this world.

     5. So true Vicky. That is humbling!

     6. Love this Vicky. And all we have to do is be humble enough to be inspired!

     7. A great perspective you offer here Vicky. So intelligent, yet so blind and unfeeling for the most part. Let us awaken.

323. If we were in brotherhood we would not accept that some people working hard every day don´t get enough money to survive and others working the same have millions to spare. Ants all work and all are equal. Of course we as human have karma and choices, but could we not consider our lack of brotherhood so we can work towards it?

324. It’s quite humbling to see that we can learn from ants. When I contemplate the size of their brains, it makes me wonder about the workings of the human brain and how clever we truly are.

     1. True gillrandall, we like to think we are clever and yet we use this cleverness to stop feeling what our body is saying to us and place different values on different aspects of our lives. Ants offer a simple reflection of teamwork and selflessness, no over complication required.

325. “It’s claiming that I am leader in what I bring – nothing less!” I like this Rik, it speaks truth in volumes. We each have our own unique qualities to bring to any situation, that is the beauty of humans. We all have the same essence but each have our own expression. It is like a huge jigsaw puzzle, in which we all are our own piece, the puzzle is not complete without one, we can get the picture without a piece or a section, but it’s not complete. In that it is clear we all have a role and a duty to bring all that we are, equally, always.

     1. Bring it on I say…..Jenny, no matter what the role I have in work ,I can endeavour to bring the fullness of who I am.

326. I had cause to be reminded of your wonderful blog yesterday during a visit to the city with my grandchildren. We stood and watched absolute team work from a team of workers building scaffolding, their movements so considerate of everyone around them and with total respect for the danger of their job. They weren’t close to us, but from a distance they reminded me of ants in bright orange vests going purposefully about their work. A great life lesson for the children.

327. I also find there is a huge difference between the quality of my work (or team work and relationships if there is a group of people) when I trust myself and what I’m doing, and when I don’t. If I go into self doubt and questioning things tend to turn pear shape pretty quick!

     1. I agree, Susie, when I connect to me first and then to whatever I am doing, the ‘plan’, there is a knowingness in what I am bringing. If I lose that connection, self doubt comes rushing in and I am then just feeling my ‘self’ in disconnection, instead of being an equal part of the team working together, with purpose, on the ‘plan’ … whatever that may be.

     2. And this only needs to happen a couple of times for us to realise the impact we have on others. If we go shaky (doubting, anxious, comparing, judging) it is felt by everyone…they of course have the choice as to whether they take that on and start to react themselves; BUT, if we all hold ourselves strong then we are free of that complication and can but evolve, move on and grow.

     3. Having trust in ourselves in group work is paramount for me. These Ants trusted themselves to get the job done and new their purpose. When we have purpose and we make life about people we naturally begin to shine.

328. Yes, this was a gorgeous confirmation that we are supported all the time to become aware of the things we need to know to evolve more deeply back to who we are.

329. I love how animals and nature when observed can inspire us so hugely and show us there could be another way to do something. I also love how you took the time and were humble enough to observe such a small creature at work, especially when most people step on ants!

     1. I also love to observe how animals do things in nature, and ants are no exception! It is easy to step on an ant or brush one away when they crawl on you, but taking the time to observe the mechanics of their life is fascinating – and a true example of brotherhood en masse.

        1. And a great reminder to not ignore things, no matter how small they are.

330. Exactly, Gill, There is no ‘I’. Ants ‘work instinctively in brotherhood’

331. Nature is such a beautiful reflection of how life can truly be. I really enjoy watching a flock of birds flying as one, in complete order and flow, like they just know, with no need for road signs and freeways. I love the magic and beauty of nature.

     1. Yes the coordination without any fight or disagreement gracefully working together for the common goal.

        1. It’s funny to picture animals or nature fighting, it just wouldn’t happen. There’s a way with nature that is always for the benefit of the all or the whole, or what is needed for everything for evolution. Only if we were to live like this as a society, things would be very different.

332. Often times the natural world can show me a different side to what I think is the way things need to be. It is just a question of am I willing to see it, and if so, am I willing to make the necessary changes, or do I make the choice to see and then carry on as before.

333. If nature is there for us as humans to learn from and it certainly is, the teamwork from the ants is something to aspire to. Our lives would be utterly transformed if our teamwork was that of the ants. Humans working together with a common goal, all equal, all fed and sheltered, no war and very little illness and disease and that would be just the start.

334. ‘What most impresses me about ants is their ability to work together as a team. What they can achieve is quite extraordinary. They are able to work together harmoniously for the good and unity of the colony because this is their common goal and purpose. Wow – ants are so inspiring!’ When we as humans work together in this way, the outcome is amazing – we so often work with our individual needs without realising how that can pull a group down, and yet, when we work as one with a true purpose, there is a beautiful harmony that is nurturing, energising and inspiring

335. The humans that have built the pyramids must have had the same understanding of equalness and purpose as ants do. It fascinates me how a communication with many can be without words.

336. I also find myself wrapped up in your words , a queen ant laying 30,000 eggs per day .. That’s amazing .. My goodness and the level of community that is so ever present in the colony is almost breathtaking .. Not a bad model of team work building to learn from.

337. Team work, brings in so much more than getting a job or a project done, it brings in true sharing, honesty and brotherhood, and when we all have different skills and work as one, we have everything we need.

338. Love what you’re sharing here Rosanna, ‘everyone taking equal responsibility for themselves’ ….
     This isn’t something we naturally do, historically we don’t really like group/team work and people are often just relieved that they aren’t the person ‘leading’ so they can sit back and coast along, trying not to pick up too many jobs. How do we change this? The only way to do this and to bring a team together is by inspiration, which is exactly what Serge Benhayon has done. Brilliantly and with so much love for all.

339. Absolutely, Sandra ….. the first hurdle we need to navigate, to even get to that point, is to ‘get over ourselves’ ….. for too long we have been in arrogance and illusion … time for some humble pie and to remove those blinkers.

340. What a realisation by living examples of these ants. It shows to me that divine order is even in the smallest insects and particles, knowing the purpose for the bigger plan.

341. Ants rock/ And they could teach many a Rhode scholar a thing or two about how to really do life.

342. I like that Rik, claiming that I am leader in what I bring and not holding back.

343. I remember as a child spending hours watching the ants in our garden busy at work on our patio. I would watch them carrying large pieces of food that were bigger than themselves with such commitment and diligence. I found them fascinating in the co-ordination and consistency. They knew exactly where they were going and what they were doing without hesitation working in brotherhood. We can indeed learn so much from what this little creatures can offer.

344. ‘They supported each other every step of the way.’ I love how the ants supported each other without wavering or giving up and with a level of commitment that is consistent and solid. Wow, these ants have a lot to offer us.

345. Is it not true that when we are treated like equals we respond as equals? And when we are treated as less we respond as less? If we treat each other with the equal respect we all deserve we would change so much in our work places, families and daily lives.

346. Absolutely Simone, when we are open to receiving the Magic of God, then nature has a reflection in every moment. When we appreciate and confirm the reflections that we do see, more and more reflections are there for us.

347. I love that too Zofia – “There is no self-importance, only the importance of service”. That is true brotherhood, the reflection of ants. Makes me laugh even imagining what ants would look like to us if they behaved in any way like humans.

348. That is so important in leadership Carola – knowing and appreciating that everyone has something of equal importance to bring to the team and that what they bring is a unique piece to add to the unified plan.

349. If you ponder a bit, most of our so called technological advancements are copied from nature. By studying animals, insects, birds and plant etc. Planes are copied from birds, boats from ducks and other swimming birds. Termites’ nests are studied to build buildings with a lot of floors. So who is the true intelligent species here? The original or the copy? 🙂

350. Since the beginning of this school year I’m involved i a new team that’s taking responsibility for the activities for the children at school. In april there was hardly any parent who wanted to join and now we’re with a team of 8 people. What I find fascinating to learn is that everybody has an internal motivation to support. Every task that is asked, including the extra ones, are taken on board without any hassle. Parents want to do more than actually necessary. New initiatives are born, there’s a lot of harmony and a lot of commitment. Very different than the view I had that there are always arguments needed to convince people. The illusion that people do things ‘for me’. This is a relief. What a Joy to work in a team that all take responsibility. I feel very humbled and inspired.

351. I love ants and their simplicity how they live life. Their purpose to work for community and their commitment to brotherhood is amazing. I love what they reflect to us as human beings.

352. “What if our work and home environments functioned from the same selfless quality of leadership and teamwork that ants do?” Imagine the possibilities!

     1. If our work and home environments functioned like a group of Ants and the Benhayon’s we would see amazing possibilities unfold. I look forward to the day when all the harmony that is reflected to us by nature and those connected to their soul is learned, lived and breathed forth as the norm.

        1. Here here Tracy!! We are at the beginning, and in time what we consider to be the unfolding of amazing possibilities WILL be the norm.

        2. What a glorious time that shall be.

353. Love what you wrote Alexis “For me a true leader leads from within the team not from an assumed position in front or above it” – beautiful wisdom. I read that as anyone can lead in a team at any point. Imagine the respect and the productivity – the service would be felt from the whole team’s commitment.

354. Gosh – looking at these ant facts it appears we can learn alot from ants about work ethics.

     1. Exactly agree Abby, worth ethic is a huge subject, these ants have it brilliantly covered in their natural way of harmony — having a strong work ethic when there is love applied, is the only work ethic that’s worth having. The other type of work ethic and perhaps more common today where we push, over extend/achieve, drive, compete [i.e without love]…to end up feeling used, job fatigued, stressed or exhausted, is of no real worth or success.

355. It is very humbling to realise that through competition and comparison we have lost the ability to value all the jobs we need for our society to function, yet here are ants in complete brotherhood, doing what needs to be done and all are equal. What a gorgeous reflection for us to ponder on.

     1. As a school teacher I see firsthand the damage that competition has caused amongst young teenagers. It really is a big set up to stop us from working together as a one brotherhood and to create divisions and separatism. Ants are reflecting to us how it’s done, beautiful.

356. In human life, brotherhood is seen as belonging to a group, often at the expense of keeping others out. We have so many layers of identity about gender, culture and race etc that we would need to get out of the way before we can appreciate what true brotherhood can do for us. May be when that time comes, we will actually be able to carry a queen size mattress single handedly, like an ant!

357. Very much so Gill… we as a humanity to have a lot to learn! With all the technology, education, skills and knowledge that we have access to, the ants reflect to us hands down, that brotherhood and equality is the way to go!

358. ‘They are able to work together harmoniously for the good and unity of the colony because this is their common goal and purpose.’ It feels that ants do not think of themselves as individuals but as part of the whole. How amazing it would be if all our places of work operated in this way regardless of our roles within them! Out with being an individual, in with being in brotherhood – wonderful!

     1. There seems such a natural rhythm and order that ant colonies have and follow. We seem to have lost the ability to live and work in communities and organisations in the same harmonious way.

     2. Very cool Jane. Their common goal isn’t about greed or individualism so they are able to harmoniously work together, something the human race could learn a great deal from.

359. I love how a simple moment in nature can provide us with the truth that the magic of God is always around us, if we are willing to see.

360. Years ago I was sitting on my apartment steps eating water melon and I dropped some at my feet, I had a whole bunch of ants come out and work together as team to take some of my water melon back to a designated spot. It was fascinating to watch this team work unfold with this large piece of watermelon. I remember thinking, this is awesome to watch and just look how hard they all work with one another. I loved this blog. It really is wonderful to stop and appreciate nature and all it has to offer as inspiration, teachings and the healings we can get when we’re open to them.

     1. Super cool. It is simply letting ourselves be inspired by all that is around us; letting ourselves be playful with every day occurrences, that, when we do so are hugely rich with learning; letting ourselves be part of a bigger picture…essential pieces of a global jigsaw.

        1. That’s it Matildaclark. Letting ourselves be forever inspired by an endless amount of things around us can be so rich in teachings and revelations. When we are open to the bigger picture it really is easy to see and feel the pieces of the global jigsaw.

        2. Yes Tracy and Matilda, it is beautiful when we are open to the bigger picture and welcome the offerings nature gives us to support us on our path. This morning I came downstairs to find a snail lodged in between our fridge and freezer! I couldn’t help but first wonder how on earth did he get in! Then I stopped and reflected… whenever I come across a snail he reminds me that I am holding back in some way.

361. Reading this blog has made me reflect on the pyramids. At the time that they were built, we did not have the technology or machinery and equipment we do now to build our huge buildings. It makes me think that there was a time when working like the ants, in true brotherhood was part of how we lived and is something we have forgotten, but is still there for us to access.

362. Ants are an amazing example of cooperation and team-work. When I get the chance I too have spent ages gazing at the way they work. I have seen great teamwork at play in some of my places of work. Some of the most successful teams have been lead by people who treat others as equal and values what each person brings. We can certainly learn a lot from the way the humble ant works with its brothers and sisters.

363. Well said Carola. We definitely need to start, ‘truly appreciating that all are equal and all work is of equal value’, and if this is the way forward, it is important to expose that comparison and competition is the strongest evil opposing force in this situation. Working as equals, in brotherhood, taking the lead when needed and supporting others throughout is the complete opposite of how we have formed society, and business in particular, where everyone is constantly playing a game of ‘who’s the best’ and trying to prove they are superior to others.

364. It is interesting to step back and appreciate what an ant can do when living in service. Much like the appreciation and inspiration I feel of the human body when in service as lived by Serge Benhayon. The way his body supports him to deliver all that he is twenty hours a day, seven days a week is incredible, and shows truly what are bodies are designed for if we look after them and use them in their true intent.

365. Tiny animals with tiny brains, is that the reason why they have no self? They instinctively work in brotherhood, no complains, no delay, no drama, just purpose and service.

366. There are many fine qualities displayed here by our humble ant. One that I wanted to draw out was how selfless they are – doing the job that needs to be done, and no better or worse jobs. Imagine a world where we put our personal issues and needs to one side (still looking after ourselves of course, but so we can serve better) – how much smoother things would run!

     1. I had a giggle Simon of the picture of an ant who had ‘issues’. Just like the rest of nature and animals, they don’t get caught up in emotions or issues nor go against what is their nature or the natural laws. Indeed it would be a great lesson to take on board to put our needs and issues to the side and get on with working together as one.

367. We sure do Gill. The ants do not mind what role they take as they are part of the bigger group. Whereas we as humans place a huge importance on what we do rather than they way we do it.

368. It seems the ant exposes our tendency towards individualised expression that does not pay heed to the whole that we are part of. Imagine if each ant did their own thing – there would be chaos. Surely one of the reflections here then is that yes, we are unique individuals but are in truth part of a greater whole and when we accept this and work together we can live harmoniously.

     1. Precisely Richard.
        It’s crazy that we fool ourselves in thinking that the I is greater than the all – rather than an equal part of it.

     2. Yes very true richardmills363 if ants would all do their own thing it would be chaos. I love feeling how they do work together and to feel what is possible for us as human beings too.

369. Emily, this is lovely, ‘the ants work together, rather harmoniously, to get the things that are needed done. Love it. Made me think about my household and how to work like an ant with it.’ How wonderful to live with this teamwork and harmony at home, I can feel how at home with my family we could work together in this way, supporting each other, working together to do what is needed and can feel how harmonious our household could be.

370. Ants living harmoniously in a colony of millions where the focus is on unity and the greater good…….we certainly have much to learn.

     1. Yes, absolutely, this was only three ants, but when we think of the millions of ants they are part of, than it does make you feel more humble as a human being. Yes, we have a lot to learn about being one big group, one big family, living in brotherhood on this earth.

371. Yes God does show us what we need to see in so many Amazing ways- all we have to do is be open to it, the magic is all around us. Never ever does God give up on us

372. Yes it’s a very joyful Sharing indeed within here and we are all so blessed by the magic of nature

373. Yes we do have a lot to learn from nature – and it’s our blessing that it is an ever present patient teacher.

374. This is such a sweet story about how ants do it –
     This is such astute observation – they really do work hard, all as one and no one thinks their job is any lesser than another’s. What a perfect example yet again from nature, we think we are the most advanced yet time and time again this is shown to be not so by the simplest of creatures who manage to live in the harmony we can only dream of.

375. Great point Gill. True leadership is about holding all as equal and inspiring others.

376. It is remarkable what we can learn about our lives through observing nature. I am forever humbled by what can be shown to us if we are open to receiving what is there to be learnt. What you have shared about ants and what they can reflect to us about our relationships is deeply inspiring for it shows us what we are capable of.

     1. Absolutely Samantha it is amazing just what nature reflects to us when we take the time to be still and consciously present enough to connect with it.

377. No role more important than the other, all work is of equal value, do what is needed including being the one that takes the lead…I can feel how natural this can all be, no room for comparison or striving for recognition, just serving the whole.

378. The humbleness you speak of is to me a great key on this topic of leadership, to humbly lead the way when it is needed and gracefully allow another to lead with their unique qualities when that is needed is the way of true brotherhood and this lesson has something for everyone to learn from.

379. What an inspiring blog. It is beautiful what nature offered you as a reflection but we can only see it when we already know it ourselves – we just need a reminder from time to time! So many of us have a distorted idea or relationship with leadership due to poor reflections we have experienced in our lives. Wouldn’t it be great if the lessons learnt from the ants were made a part of all leadership training!

     1. I agree Fiona, there is a lot of distortion about leadership and management that makes life hard on both the leader/manager and on their team. Too often do leaders think they need to do and or know it all, have to do it by themselves or have to keep up a role or posture. And too often people feel their role or task is less than anothers and hold back in what they do. True teamwork holds everyone equal in their specific role and expression they bring.

380. We certainly do have a lot to learn, Gill. I’m feeling that one of our greatest vices is the comfort we have got ourselves into from wanting to be an individual and all that that brings. This is something we find very hard to let go of.

     1. Absolutely Alison and holding onto my individuality is my so obvious battle that I keep choosing to make, it is so tedious and worn out yet I keep getting in the car and driving it the same way I have done, in MY car in MY way, mighty ant show me the way home!

381. Nature is ever calling us to evolve, reminding us of our absolute beauty, the stillness within us, the expansiveness, true purpose, brotherhood and all the loving reflections it offers in everything…. I am awe inspired by nature’s graceful lessons. Even in the tragedies we are offered a powerful reflection of how we have being living as humans on this planet. It is all there for us if we have the eyes to see.

382. We’d certainly be much more productive!

383. Yeah, nature has it sorted. They know what to do and they do it, and the teamwork displayed by so many animals is pretty extraordinary. The idea that we need to be whipped into line by a more authorative figure is simply untrue and certainly not conducive to a harmonious environment. However true teamwork only works when all party members are willing to take responsibility for themselves first and come to the party as an equal.

     1. Yes, Elodie and you certainly don’t see ants standing around comparing themselves with each other or looking for recognition. They’re all about the bigger picture and never the individual – a marvellous reflection for humanity.

384. ‘what if our work and home environments functioned from the same selfless quality of leadership and teamwork that ants do?’
     It would feel amazing. Ants don’t get caught up in ‘identification’, with needs and hurts, they just continue on their merry way, with purpose. There is an acceptance and ‘knowing’ that they are an integral part of the plan, every ant has a place, which is equally valued. We, on the otherhand, are very good at loading ourselves up with lots of ‘stuff’ …. expectations, undealt with hurts, ideals and beliefs, needs, fear …. No wonder we are suffering from exhaustion. We seem to have made life very complicated when it really doesn’t need to be so.

385. So true I feel Marcia and to repeat your words “It makes me appreciate not only the Magic of God but also what nature is constantly sharing with us.” There are just so many instances when the Magic of God changes the potential of straying from ones heart connection, for example, I had the experience just recently of ‘thinking’ about a specific situation that was not especially bringing my body any harmony when on the edge of the water seemingly within touching reach was the commencement of a partial rainbow. I felt the significance of this beauty of nature’s bounty and as I let go the supposed hold that my ‘dilemma’ was having on me, the rainbow grew and grew until it formed an arc fully viewed from my balcony and over the ocean, the colours becoming clearer and clearer – one has to be in awe of the Magic of God and the inspiration it brings.

386. What a beautiful reflection from nature! I find in life that I either ‘take the bull by the horns’ and lead the way, expecting others to follow, or I sit back and allow another to lead & I take on a support role (allowing the other person to take on the extra responsibility alone). This blog really gets us to look at leadership in a new way – a sharing of the responsibility and working together in harmony. I love what you write, that ants ‘..simply do what is needed and thus do not consider any role as less’ – true brotherhood.

387. Nature is so powerful when we take the time to appreciate this from becoming aware in life and what’s going on around us all the time. When we talk about human leaders/leadership, and experience as our offices, society, businesses, economies do the levels of imposition, rule, corruption, abuse, greed, aggressive or self-interested behaviours and all the disharmony or inequality that this produces, and then contrast this with the Ant example, what is more intelligent, productive or efficient?

     1. There is no denying the contrast of what we currently have in our society and the simple truth that comes from the collaborative, harmonious ant example. We have much to learn from our natural world that is in sync and in harmony with the all. We too are no different, except for the fact that we mis-use our intelligence which gets in the way of our natural order.

388. To share leadership in the way you described ants feels a more natural and harmonious way for humanity, which in essence means sharing more responsibility for our actions and not playing small with the wisdom we all hold, and expressing it to other people.

389. True leadership – I love how the ants take turns and no one is better than another. They are all equally responsible and no one leaves the load for another. Very inspiring.

390. Yes Rachel, the world would be transformed too… Maybe we were organised and full of love when building the pyramids 20,000 years ago.

391. Working in brotherhood absolutely rocks and speaking of rocks that is how the pyramids were built. When we work in true brotherhood we work together with God and miracles become the norm. Makes me wonder why on earth we choose to work and relate any other way when this loving and joyful way is accessible to us all equally – crazy!

392. I love how you share that each knows its role, carries out its task with commitment, does whatever is needed and does not consider any role as less or more. This is exactly how I work and I have now been graced in life to be able to work with a team of people who work in the same way. I can report it is not only hugely effective but mega joyful to live and work this way!

     1. Very inspiring to read you comment Nicola. Would love to read more about it….

393. I LOVE ants now 😀 Thank you for your research and I agree, what an amazing species!!!

     1. Nature is constantly reflecting to us that we are all amazing, the beauty, order, harmony and flow in nature is also in us all too.

     2. I have always been a fan of how ants live and think that we could learn a lot from how they live together.

     3. Me too, and next time I see ants I want to respect their teamwork and being the living inspiration for brotherhood.

394. “Even though an ant is smaller than your finger nail, it can lift 20 times its own body weight and carry it for long distances back to its colony.” Also the human body is capable of much more than our mind would imagine!

     1. And imagine if we all worked together in harmony with purpose what we are all capable of together!

        1. I know imagine that! At the moment we are all living in a way that is very separate from everyone. This is simply unnatural, the ants and nature is showing us this. The misery, pain, suffering, illness and disease I feel is hugely contributed to us all living separate from each other, protecting and keeping each other out. If we all come together to live and work in harmony what we are capable of will be extraordinary, powerful and magical just like the reflection of nature. The Way of the Livingness is here to bring humanity together as one, to show us the way to restore harmony back again.

        2. Yes imagine, and through the ages groups of us have done so, imagine if we all came together as humanity and worked with purpose – that would be amazing.

        3. The change would be quite staggering Marcia!

        4. A modern-day version of the Pyramids perhaps?? 🙂

        5. Yes… and all with sand or dirt… masterful indeed and an amazing reflection of what’s possible with harmony and group-work!

     2. Yes that is very true Janina. We are capable of so much more than we imagine. We are made to work and when we are working and living in true harmony actually need very little sleep and food!

        1. Hi Nicola, I don’t feel we were made to work, we were made to play and everything we have to do we should do playfully and with joy because we are doing it for pleasure with our brothers.

        2. “we were made to play and everything we have to do we should do playfully and with joy because we are doing it for pleasure with our brothers.” Great Nicholas, that you bring in the quality of playfulness and joy into what ever we do serving humanity. What the ants story reflect is living true brotherhood having a common purpose.

        3. Hi Nicholas – to me there is nothing more joyous and playful than working when that work is for evolution and for purpose. I have no doubt that we were made to work it is just that my definition of work is different to yours – perhaps substitute the word work for love and truth and we might be on the same page!

     3. Its something I have always known from an early age – that it is normally our mind that holds us back, and we are capable of so much more than we can imagine. Serge Benhayon has shown me more of what is possible in a human body than I could have imagined… true inspiration when my mind tells me it has a problem with something trivial.

        1. I agree Simonwilliams “it is normally our mind that holds us back and we are capable of so much more than we can imagine”. Through a deep lack of self worth like many women have in our society, my mind told my that i am not capable of a lot of things and i listened. Yes thanks to Serge Benhayon and Universal Medicine i could realize that i am capable of so much more and work in areas which i have never imagined and look forward what else will unfold!!

395. Ants working together for the benefit of the whole is indeed something we, humanity, could learn a lot from.

     1. Yes, indeed we have a lot to learn from nature. The power of humanity coming together working as one will one day be our way, the natural way.

     2. I agree, ants could teach humanity a vital lesson in brotherhood.

     3. We can indeed learn from the symbolism of Ants. Let us ponder on the simplicity of it, rather than brush over it.

396. What is also coming to me is the fact that there is no leadership as in someone’s telling others what to do. There’s just everybody doing their job, their task. To me that’s Amazingly inspiring. I do a lot, but can also go into indulgence and giving up. Where as the ants are just reflecting that I shouldn’t. It is a reflection of dedication, consistency, responsibility, purpose and hard work. And that together! How Awesome is that.

397. “…depending upon the needs of the colony they simply do what is needed and thus do not consider any role as less.” The ants selflessness and ability to work together for the good of the colony is very inspiring.

398. So very cool – and a few ideologies have tried this concept so there is part of us that knows this is possible. The more I work with groups the more I learn the true meaning of commitment, purpose and dedication.

399. So well said Zofia and so true in what I see in my work environment. I often see project deadlines driven by a big fat bonus for those heading up the project, or some other financial incentive that has no semblence of it being about the group as a whole.

400. So well put Zofia. Self gets in the way a lot in society, everyone trying to be one up on the other and not realising that we are all exactly the same just play different roles…

401. Nicely put Gill, we do have a lot to learn !

402. If we actually did communicate with an ant and tried to explain about the state of humanity and the lack of equality, it probably would not be able to understand how we have such huge differences in power, position and pay. For ants, there is nothing to be gained from being individually focused because they don’t seek an identity. All they know is oneness.

     1. I find that a great point the ants show us Jinya ” there is nothing to be gained from being individually focused”. Brotherhood in action!

     2. This is amazing what you have said here Jinya. Individuality does destroy any work to be done especially in groups as the self is so absorbed in its agenda for success, achievements or recognition. When we are able to get self out of the way and come from a place of Love and harmony then the real work will be able to be done.

     3. That is beautifully said Jinya, it is about letting go of the individuality in us people and understand and to acknowledge that we are part of the whole and that we have an important role to play in this. It is not about the individual position, the amount of power we have or the pay we get, as this is not the goal and purpose of us living on this earth together in our communities. We have to become aware of the fact that we are here to work together in brotherhood and that we are all equal in that, that we are one big family and only by uniting and expressing in this unity we will be able to return to where we belong and where we are destined to return to.

     4. Yes Jinya the whole is worth so much more than the sum of the parts.

     5. I think what you say is actually very interesting. Despite their huge brain power (thanks Christohp Schnelle) they wouldn’t actually be able to comprehend our way of living because when all you know is oneness, harmony and brotherhood then it may actually be impossible to fathom an alternative.That is how far we have strayed off the path of truth. That is how far we are from home. Perhaps we shouldn’t just be looking at the ants, we should be following them?!

403. I have also been a keen observer of ants and have marvelled at their ability to carry such heavy loads compared to their body size and weight. Their team work is exemplary and there is much we can learn from them.

     1. Marvel is the perfect word for it. At school in Australia we spend a fair share of time outside each day and often pretty close to, if not sitting on, the ground- an opportune time for ant watching and opportune for the ants as well as there were plenty of food crumbs to collect. It is a wonder to see an ant carry something much bigger than itself and several ants carry something relatively large in symphony, like a potato crisp.

     2. Ants have figured out how much they can do and they get on and do it, all working together, making a very strong team. I’m not sure we understand how much we can do and I also wonder if we actually want to know how much we’re truly capable of, because then it’s very hard for us to justify why we are not doing it.

     3. I have also admired ants up close many times before, what struck me was their persistence to get a job done, nothing will stop them from achieving their task, it is such a quality to have that relentless commitment to a purpose that you know is greater than you, something of service to your community of ants. A reflection that offers a great lesson to us human beings.

        1. So true Stephen, have you ever tried to distract an ant from its purpose? They are extremely determined little creatures, an innate quality that can teach us so much if we attempt to it embody ourselves. They reflect to us complete dedication to the colony and the immense power that arises when individual beings work as a whole, I agree, a lesson that humanity is truly in need of.

404. Animals keep things really simple. They do exactly what’s needed and nothing else. We never see a giraffe trying to be a hippo. Nature does feel its purpose and fulfills it every day. Each animal knows where it fits in the greater pictures and gets on with being itself and doing its thing. They feel their part in a greater plan, each tiny cogs on a greater wheel. How far have we as humans come when we are disconnected from our place within the plan and act like what we are not, serving ourselves only, disconnected from the greater brotherhood? It’s almost unfashionable to consider yet this is how we are. We feel we are taking care of so much by just taking care of ourselves, yet the ants are showing us we are missing out on something much greater.

     1. Great point Melinda, and they can keep things simple because they always work to a purpose. Without that, complication abounds and the merry-go-round of life is the result.

     2. Spot on Melinda, animals have no ‘whats in it for me ‘agenda, and as humans we miss the joy of being part of the greater whole when we seek self importance to get more recognition, money, possessions, rather than self care in order to work in harmony with our fellow man.

405. I can’t help myself: Which is the brainiest animal on earth?

     The ant.

     12% of its bodyweight is brain, more than any other animal.

     1. They certainly use their wisdom well.

     2. Wow! Really Christoph? That’s a fun piece of information I can impress the next person with!

     3. And yet we call ourselves “the intelligent species”. The arrogance would be laughable if it wasn’t so hideously separative.

     4. Love it Christophe.

     5. Would that indicate, that great intellect is governed by Brotherhood Christoph?

     6. The size of the brain has no correlation with intelligence see The Body is Intelligent « Medicine and Serge Benhayon

     7. Classic Christoph – the humble ant with a huge brain, manages to live easily in brotherhood.

     8. I love it Christoph – the ant wins especially when it comes to using its brain to work together in brotherhood.

     9. Fascinating fact Christophe. Thanks for sharing. I’m off to look up what percentage of body weight our human brains are.

     10. Another amazing fact about Ants – who would of thought! That’s a whole lot of working brain.

     11. So apparently an ant has 250,000 brain cells and a human brain has about 10 million. Human life may be more complex, but perhaps it is relying on our enormous number of brain cells that stops us from living simply. One human brain contains about the same number of brain cells as a colony of 40,000 ants. Imagine what is possible with our brains if we tapped into the same intelligence as that of ants!

     12. Is life about the brain or our connection to the wisdom of who we are, as presented by the Ageless Wisdom through Serge Benhayon?

406. I love what you share here Zofia. My husband has recently been watching The Apprentice and quite honestly I simply couldn’t stomach it! The misconception that being a leader is all about being seen to be doing a good job, to justify and defend your position, to put another down, to bully and to be self aggrandising left me feeling absolutely cold. The absolute investment in self here is totally at odds with true brotherhood and being of service to others. Your quote “true leadership is the natural order of embodied equalness towards a unified purpose” is simply awesome Zofia and should be on posters a mile high in every office building across the world!

407. Thank you for sharing the amazing commitment and consistency of ants when it comes to team work without any leadership issues – they just get on with the task in front of them and support each other without any need for recognition or reward. A much needed reflection for us currently when it feels like the media is constantly looking for people to build up and then knock down but this is only highlighting how most operate in life looking after themselves rather than looking at the bigger picture and asking how can I be of service.

408. What a wonderful world we would live in, if the human race could work together as one brotherhood like the Ants, each knowing his/her place and job and all equal with no one greater or more revered than another. No squabbling or warring just getting on with what is beneficial for all.

     1. Ah yes Kevin – it would be wonderful! However perhaps it is possible to consider that at some point in our history, we ‘have’ worked more in the brotherhood like the Ants – (when I think of this, I consider how the great pyramids were built and that this must have involved an amazing team of people working together in common purpose) – and that therefore, in truth, this is not a ‘new’ way of working, but simply a way we have a choice to return to.

     2. I love your comment kevmchardy. So down to earth and so true. Seems so simple when you put it like that 🙂

     3. We are a fair way off that world Kev, but with the gorgeous simple reminders of what is possible around us and if we do pay attention we may just start to face in the right direction.

409. Sandra a great point, there is a constant reflection in nature but the “busyness” of life often gets in the way to the point we completely miss out on the true nature and purpose of life. Years and decades can go by until we ask – what is the purpose. We often miss out of the real magic that has been their all along. I remember as a kid watching Ants and other animals move, work and play. As adults we often tend to think we are too busy yet we not only miss out but then teach our next generation to miss out as well.

410. I love your comment Zofia. This is it in a nutshell.

411. I love the fact that ants can show us that they may be extremely tiny but because they work together they can in fact do grand things. Reading this also reminded me of the termites that build huge cooling towers which have the purpose of keeping the nest underground cool – all perfectly engineered.

412. This is such a beautiful article, ants are amazing and such a great reflection for human beings on how we can live harmoniously together, this is lovely, ‘The role of an ant may change with age and depending upon the needs of the colony they simply do what is needed and thus do not consider any role as less.’ I love the simplicity of this, it shows how heady we can get about what job we are doing and how we look for recognition compared to the ants who simply work together for the all with no need for individual identification.

413. “The ants show us that when there is no self-importance, there is only the importance of service.” This is the true essence of us all. To serve equally on this planet. I am learning that when I take self out of the way, and make my life about service, my life flows much more simply and freely. There is no more quagmire of emotions and issues to battle through to try and get somewhere, but a true path unfolds before me.

414. Nature has always been there to show us how to we have made life so complicated by reflection. The sign ‘MEN WORKING’ that inevitably shows three men watching, one man digging is just one form of how we over complicate our life’s. I have watched and dug that hole in the past. The old ways where teamwork and leadership worked well was 3 men, one shovel and a rope did the job and everyone would rotate, there was purpose behind there actions.

415. Very inspiring! I too will take that in my day, work and team: “to stay focused on purpose, to bring everyone with me in my team as equal leaders, and to support a way of working together where everyone was evolving.”

416. So simple, yet so true; ‘ The ants show us that when there is no self-importance, there is only the importance of service’.

417. Today this stood out for me while re reading your blog;’Every ant knows its role and carries out its task with commitment and without hesitation.’ It feels so important to fully commit to every task we have, when I let one talk slip it has it effect on all my other tasks and it feels as if it all slips through my fingers. Hesitating is what I have done a lot and it has made tasks into a struggle because of choosing to delay.

418. What I have been feeling more and more recently is that there are two parts to true leadership. One is what you describe here Sharon, and many others have commented on – the notion of absolute equality and total acceptance of the role of either leader or follower. But for me there is another layer that needs exposing and is something that I am really digging in to at the moment (sometimes it isn’t too pretty) and that is the ‘self’ in it all. I have often been called a great leader and certainly I treat people with a great deal of equality (not absolute) and am very, very good at inspiring them to be the everything that they are. But, for whom am I doing it? What is the end goal? Who benefits? Is it for everyone on the team? is it for humanity? or is it for me? And this is where that 2nd layer gets exposed. The first and most powerful step is an awareness that this layer even exists – and that is what I am now trying to remember to bring to each situation. And if I do remember, then the ‘leadership’ has a totally different taste to it – because it is for the bigger picture, for humanity. I may not get it right, it may not be perfect and I may slip at some corners, but the intention of being true, and the humility being in place, is a great first step.

     1. The thing is; we might start of leading, but then that leading inspires another to be more and then suddenly they have the leading impulse. At that point if we try to keep leading then we are rejecting evolution. Also, if we do not take the roll of follower behind that leading impulse, then the other person doesn’t get confirmed, which in turn restricts their evolution. So it is essential that we are continually open to the ebb and flow of it all and deeply remember that, in the end, we are all equally integral pieces of the puzzle whether as leaders or followers.

     2. What you say about the big picture is the key to it all. When that is the purpose and focus then leader, follower, whatever becomes irrelevant. More precisely though there is also zero attachment to whatever role you might be filling because the focus is on the whole. The next thing that comes out of this for me is the lack of individual judgement. Because, in fact, wasting time judging becomes an irresponsibility to the whole and to the others in the team (humanity). So playing big, as the ants do, is what it is all about.

419. Yes, and isn’t it awesome that nature lives this common intelligence and we human beings only think we are intelligent, though we do the very opposite by war, crime, corruption etc.?

     1. So who is more intelligent here- ants or human beings ? 😉

420. The qualities of group work and leadership are so well presented by the community of ants. Commitment, focus, no selfishness, no need of recognition, but support of each other. As well as changing leadership and working areas. The queen also utterly on service for all. No one is better nor less – equality in all parts of the community.

     1. So true Sonja, a lesson we humanity, could all heed with good effect. Imagine a large corporate company being run like an ant colony, with each person knowing their own value and supporting their team members without need for recognition or competition but from a true place of purpose and care. What an incredible atmosphere that would create!

421. It appears to me that if we human beings would start to work together at least one third as much as the ants do, we would take a huge leap as a species.

422. The great point that was raised about leadership is that even if there is a leader there is no lesser role.

     The leader is nothing without people to lead and the group hugely benefits from having direction and purpose given by a leader.

423. It is incredible what we can learn by the reflections in nature, I too have found ants fascinating creatures to watch when it comes to their group work skills, so much to learn!

424. It really is incredible that nature reflects to us everything we need to know. All we have to do is to pay attention, rather than seeing them as an annoyance, which I have to admit that I have done.

     1. You are certainly not alone there Jennifer. I have seen many people -myself included- get frustrated and annoyed by the presence of ants in their home, car or picnic. What a different way of viewing these “annoyances”, through appreciation and valuing of the message they are there to bring.

425. Yes, Katie agreed there is much for us to learn from this beautiful offering, it is our job to stay open to what we are being shown.

426. no job considered less, and equally no job considered more – in other words the ants show us the purposeful activity and brotherhood or unity of equalness, similar to the construction of the Great Pyramids of Giza.

427. I feel that often people are put into leadership positions with very little support. There is an expectation on them to perform, this will only happen if their team works together effectively. However, if the leadership is being given from a place of fear (of failure), lack of self worth, or self acceptance, this energy will be felt by the whole team, which is enormously debilitating for all. Instead of feeling a spaciousness and supported to be themselves, the team will instead feel the same fear and uncertainty, which will manifest differently in each person. Some may become dominant, others will shrink and hide and there we have the start of the ‘office politics’ and back stabbing. It’s equally disempowering if the leader feels confidently superior and exploits his/her position for his/her own gain. To be a true leader, as in anything we do, it’s important to recognise that we are a part of a whole, we can’t do it alone, we can achieve together, in equalness.

428. Katerina what came to mind when reading your comment was how ants can all work so harmoniously together because they unequivocally share the same purpose. The reason why we, as a race of people have made such a mess of everything is because there is no shared purpose. In fact most people do share a common purpose but that purpose is to look after themselves, which is why we remain so fragmented. We will, in time all return to having one common purpose and that will be to lift up the Whole. When we remember en mass that we are all indeed One then we shall naturally all work towards constantly refining and lifting that One united Whole to an ever deepening level of love and how will that feel !!!

429. In relationship to teamwork this quality of the ant stood out to me ” Every ant knows its role and carries out its task with commitment and without hesitation”. Commitment is a key element in teamwork as it is in life itself. Without a commitment to the ALL teamwork cannot and does not work.

     1. I agree – and there is no hierarchy. No one job is seen as more important than another. There is no SELF, no seeking recognition, no prize winning or one-up-manship. Such a far, far cry from every single workplace (and most families). It is amazing, when you consider such inspirational reflections, that we have that arrogance to call ourselves the ‘intelligent species’ – I wonder what the animals call us?!

        1. Very true ottobathurst. We can live in a way that there is no ‘self’ and always considering the whole. I was reminded by someone recently that in making life about serving people and the bigger picture, as individuals we get taken care of.

        2. Annie Tran. This sounds like exactly the words that Mummy and Daddy Ant would read to Baby Ant at bedtime. Also, just noticed that Annie Tran is very nearly an anagram of Reina Ant (spanish for Queen Ant). Which is quite fun!

     2. Absolutely Elizabeth. Commitment is what holds the team together – if you have half a team willing to give it their all, and the other half only wanting to help when things are ‘easy’ it will never work and the job won’t get done.

     3. Yes Elizabeth my feeling exactly. Commitment in teamwork is the glue that holds the whole together and without this mayhem ensues.

430. Ants are such a gorgeous representation of what it means to work as a group and to have many working as one. It is funny that people who value their right to freedom and their independence, see that level of unity as being “drone-like”, and controlled. They do not grasp the joy that comes from working as one, “sharing the load” and knowing that the care you give another will be returned in full.
     That sort of freedom and independence can never truly be, for we affect each other all of time, and even if it does exist in our minds it is a very isolating and lonely state.

431. I agree Brooke, ants operate with an absolute purpose and dedication that is truly awe inspiring!

432. Ants teach us about the power of true harmony and the lack of self. There is no self in ants they know their role is to work in harmonious union with other ants for a common goal. We have so much to learn from these tiny creatures!

433. When I was a child I was always fascinated by ants as we lived in a hot climate and there were always plenty around. There teamwork and precision is so incredible I could watch them for hours. Thanks for your extra ant facts too, very interesting.

434. I have always loved working in teams and have been confident in my ability to be a good team member and team leader. Reading this reveals a far deeper understanding of the true nature of teams and reveals how ‘personally involved’ we can become with our roles in these. The beautiful reflections from nature.

435. Yes absolutely Brooke… we can learn a lot from the way ants go about getting things done, working together with respect for each other but with a very clear commitment to a purpose.

436. What we see in nature is a reflection of ourselves. The true beauty and connection of everything unequivocally so. The continued learning from nature blows me away every time.

437. Ouch, I remember stepping on a jumping ant once…now that was also a pretty painful wake up call 🙂

438. I love that you have highlighted that true leadership is shared and to bring everyone with you as equal leaders. To remind each team player of the importance of their equal contribution, just in case they forget. To use the purpose of the group as the guiding light and to work through any bumps that arise. And to remain in support of one another rather than reaction.

439. If we keep our focus on brotherhood, on the purpose of working together and what needs to be done we can ‘move mountains’ or ‘build pyramids’ together. We are all leaders and all supporters. We cannot do it alone for we need each other.

440. “what if our work and home environments functioned from the same selfless quality of leadership and teamwork that ants do?” I feel the ‘Ant story’ would be a perfect one to take to business meetings, and to our dinner tables, as it so beautifully highlights what is possible when we are all working together rather than for self.

     1. I agree Victoria. That line really rang with me too and I have been thinking about bringing it to the family. I love the idea of sharing and swopping the leadership of the house. We try that as much as possible with ‘family meetings’ etc…but there is still often a sense that Mum and Dad are in charge. When that ‘ant feeling’ is running well, it’s beautiful – chores are no longer chores and the flow of what needs to be done is seamless. I’m definitely going to bring up the ‘Ant story’ as an analogy.

441. Nature is wonderful to observe and learn from, it enriches our lives.

442. The power of ants is always felt when we see their colony. When we see ants we know we are not only seeing one or two of them, we know there is a whole colony there—hence probably the reaction we as human beings get into when we see a trail of ants, especially inside our own homes! When I observe ants there is absolute focus on their purpose, and because every single one of them is in this purpose together, their power is undeniable. Try breaking up an ant trail, it will quickly form back into another continuous trail, with no question, only dedication back to a united and committed purpose, it is truly inspiring.

443. What nature can learn us is so amazing, ants are indeed very inspiring. Showing that what is possible in true brotherhood, without one leader working together in true harmony to one goal, sustaining life, and reflecting their qualities to us.

     1. The absence of a leader is interesting isn’t it. There is leadership but no leader. The leadership here comes from a unified knowing that is innate in every ant. Something to ponder on here!

        1. Yes, that is truly inspiring and indeed something to ponder on. What if we all connected to this knowing? Then the struggle life so often is found to be, is no longer possible.

444. I agree Susan Lee and it confirms that every deed by big or small counts equally.

445. “Even though an ant is smaller than your finger nail, it can lift 20 times its own body weight and carry it for long distances back to its colony.”. If we only would really stand still and let this sink in, we can’t but ask the question how this is possible. As most of the Human Beings are not able to even lift 20 kg or more. What is it about them that ants can? As everything is energy they must use some kind of (energetic) technique that makes them able to do this. This would be an interesting study alone on itself. To me this is a miracle! A reflection from Heaven that is offering us a stop and come back to our humbleness…

     1. Great to consider Floris, it reminds me of the pyramids and the discussions around lifting the sandstone blocks… Maybe the ants are continuing to lift great weights and we have lost our ability as we lost true connection and brotherhood.

446. Absolutely. I remember this too. Because any big disaster (like the amazing community spirit that came about during WWII) immediately knocks out the self, meaning we have the humility to accept our equality and start to live and work for the good of the whole. Just like ants.

447. I LOVE this blog. Last year I was similarly inspired by my research in to ants. So much so that I have named my film production company SILVER ANTS – for all of these exact reasons and because the qualities are what is so sorely lacking in the media industry – most especially in Hollywood, which is built entirely on self. But naming your company after the inspiration of Ants is easy….actually putting it in to practice and following through with example by which they lead, is another! And I am still constantly learning and evolving my role as a leader, inspirer of others, and follower. This blog is a beautiful reminder of the magic of ants. One day, I’d love to sit down with you and share in “ant-appreciation” with you. (the silver ants are particularly amazing because of the heat that they can handle in the desert).

     1. I am curious, ottobathurst, are they actually silver? Whether in the position of being a leader or taking our place working within a group, there needs to be a constant willingness to learn, let go of any self importance and an understanding of working for the whole. We certainly have much to learn from these amazing little creatures.

        1. They are!! Google them – amazing looking beasts. Futuristic, sci-fi-esque. The silver is to reflect the sun in the desert – which I especially liked as I saw it as a useful asset in reflecting the scorching intensity of the media industry! The ants are significantly more evolved than I am since I still get badly ‘burnt’. But I am evolving – as the ants did.

        2. Thank you Otto for taking the time to respond, I will google them, they sound amazing, your comment made me smile and I have to say you feel amazing too!!

448. It’s great the inspirations and realisations that we can have through observing nature.

449. What stands out a mile is the selflessness in purpose, the bigger picture always behind the activity, that each ant knows ‘its role and carries out its task with commitment and without hesitation’. It begs the question why we’re not doing the same and definitely suggests we can learn a thing or two from simple observation and application in our own lives.

450. What a great reflection from the ants, working together in harmony and sharing the leadership role, what an inspiration. Everyone is a leader and it’s about working together to get whatever needs to be done, supporting each other along the way.

451. A great reminder that leadership does not sit with one person who may be nominated, or paid to be in charge. It is the role of a good leader to know that they can be led by others in their team, but also to all of us that we have a time to lead as well. We do not have to be forever led!

452. So true johanna08smith. We are constantly being offered insights and reflections through nature, the physical built environment and the people around us. The question is, are we open to receiving what is on offer or do we put our heads down and close our hearts to ignore it?

453. “They are able to work together harmoniously for the good and unity of the colony because this is their common goal and purpose”. I have noticed this in ants, the way they are so aligned in a unified purpose, the way they communicate with one another and work together is quite remarkable. I had not realised that “The role of an ant may change with age and depending upon the needs of the colony they simply do what is needed and thus do not consider any role as less.” This makes what they teach us in this area even more remarkable. I love how nature provides inspiration and wisdom. Magic of God at play!

454. Humorous and so true. You might one day say that your work and leadership is inspired by nature ( ‘an ant’) and of course Serge Benhayon as main inspiration. I enjoy to read you founding out within you what true leadership is and how even nature knows this naturally so, I mean that is inspiring! It looks like we all go back to the same ancient wisdom eventually – a wisdom that we all know but possibly are not very aware of.

455. What a beautiful reflection from nature. There is so much wisdom in these everyday activities if we take the time to stop and truly observe and feel.

456. Messages from God are abundant and everywhere, all we need is to be open enough to see them Our teachers can be the tiniest bull ant or large spiders. Last week I found a spider the size of my hand, on the carpet. Hearing my footsteps and unable to escape, it attempted to disguise itself by lying completely flat, almost indistinguishable from the carpet, but still visible. I have never seen a spider this size before but was not afraid. I put a glass cup over it, and as I did its legs gathered up into a tight ball for protection, and gently moved it to a safe place and set it free outside. At the time, I didn’t ponder on the message I was being shown. On reflection there’s perhaps much more here: moving from a safe to an exposed space, making myself vulnerable again, seeking to be invisible, but not succeeding, trying to protect myself by being small. There are times when we are guided to leave cosy, and safe corners and walk a path that exposes us in new ways, to challenges and possibilities. And when we do, benevolent forces keeping watch are there to guide us to a safe place.

457. Leadership and team work are not to be separated, there is no lead without the supporters and everybody is equally important. I love the point you make about the changing leadership of the ants, that there was a sense of leading in every ant when the time was there for them to lead. A great reflection of leadership from a lived brotherhood, without any identification or recognition in it.

458. The words that struck me from your description of the ants is ‘without hesitation’ for me in this alone there is much to learn and I feel to carry these words with me for moments when I feel myself get distracted to remain focused on what needs to be done.

459. I have always found it fascinating to watch ants working together. They don’t have brains but they know exactly what they are doing. There’s no checking out or wasting time. Every moment has its purpose and is always a part of the grand design of nature.

     1. Jinya I am stopped by your comment that ants don’t have brains and yet they are totally committed to their purpose and know exactly what they are doing. What does that say about thinking?

460. What a powerful reading you had on seeing the ants on your walk, and an amazing example of conscious presence on your walk also, the ant reflection could easily have been missed.Thank you for seeing the magic of God and sharing it with us.

461. Leadership as also been on my mind lately, and how we have got it so wrong to date. There is so much need for the leader to be identified for their work that it puts at risk the need to do whats needed, instead people choose what will be rewarded.

     1. True leadership takes the ALL into account all the time and is never for a moment about self or recognition. Just take a look at Serge Benhayon, he would make a great ant!

     2. Very true Joel. There is also the need of everyone else to step away from their own power and leadership and happily hand it all over to another.

462. True leading means leading through inspiration and doing what is needed to be done.

463. Well said johanna08smith – it’s all there for us – we just have to ‘choose to stop, see, observe and feel’.

464. What you’re sharing is great – we should seek inspiration from the world around us – especially because many animals seem far more able to interact with harmony than we do. I have always been fascinated by animals like ants, there ability to work together with no civil war, arguments, tension or other issues that we as humans suffer from despite the fact we are apparently more intelligent than an ant.

     1. Very true Rebecca. Animals understand true team work, for many species, their survival depends on it. They work together in brotherhood for the common purpose of the survival of the group. They don’t have delusions of grandeur, if they did, they would be on their own, as this would not serve or support the whole group. It’s as though every animal knows and accepts it’s part in the constellation of the group. All the parts are needed, equally.

        1. I agree Alison, its a great example of what can be achieved when we work together and put aside all the unnecessary disagreements and separation

     2. It’s true Rebecca, that many animals seem far more able to interact with harmony than we do. They don’t overeat and only kill what they can consume and they pace themselves according to the capacity of their body, unlike us humans who are obese from overeating and push ourselves to achieve in order to prove we are better than someone else. Bees, like ants, work together as if the colony is one body and each bee is a part within the whole. We could certainly take a lesson from this by stopping the fight for individual success and learning to work together as a community with divine inspiration and common purpose. Then we would be accessing our true intelligence not just that of the human mind which thinks it can do what it likes, but in reality is only choosing either what harms or what is harmonious.

        1. Sandra your comment, ‘the fight for individual success’ really stood out. This is so common in my experience of society and how I have lived. It’s so lovely to read this reminder to put aside this very caustic way of living that erodes our connection to ourselves, our true purpose and our connection with each other in brotherhood. Much rather choose to trust our true purpose over looking to impress and get results employers recognize in the hope that one can feel more secure within the job market.

           Whatever another is doing I am choosing to drop my competitiveness, trust what I bring and feel the importance of putting aside my insecurities to work in union with others.

465. Nature can show us so many things if we stop to pay attention. I too have experienced such situations where I may be questioning something or having a certain pattern of thoughts and then something catches my eye like a spider or a pigeon. I’ve often wondered why I look up or in that direction in that exact moment but I reckon part of it comes from an old phrase of ‘ask and you shall receive’. This questioning with almost instant answers has happened too many times for it to be random or just a coincidence.

466. Nature will always provide the inspiration and answers that are needed to take the next step. It never ceases to amaze me the ingenious situations that God uses to get our attention, and the totally appropriate scenarios provided to give the exact message we need.

     1. Beautifully said Rosemary. I so love ‘the magic’ of God, in the way that he presents us with the exact configuration that we need at any moment in time and all we need to do is to be open and willing to observe these magical moments. Such a gorgeous gift to all of humanity. When we also choose to consider the wisdom being presented and learn from it, then, we’re ‘saying thank you’.

        1. ‘When we also choose to consider the wisdom being presented and learn from it, then, we’re ‘saying thank you’. I love this Alison. The appreciation of the gift given is felt in our acceptance and openness to learn. Beautiful!

467. Very true Katie – there is so much that nature offers us in the way of harmony. Its one of my favourite places to walk in.

468. It is magic that you were present enough in your walk to notice the ants and therefore the messages in the first instance; and what great realisations you share here, thank you.

469. “Ant colonies don’t have leaders” – isn’t that extraordinary how they can organize themselves and work together without an assigned leader telling them what to do?
     Imagine people working together like that! Everybody doing what needs to be done, without complaining or pointing the finger, or comparing how much another has contributed, measuring our output accordingly. No power struggles or fights who is right and gets to tell the other what to do. No recognition for individual achievements either as everything is achieved as a team.
     It makes me wonder, would we still have the motivation and energy to get out of bed in the morning?

     1. Love you final comment Judith! When what I do is based on recognition and being seen, it’s exhausting! True team work is effortless as the ants demonstrate. I know the difference between working with others with purpose and working with effort and for reward. I know which one makes me feel alive!

     2. I was listening to a programme where big companies are run without a hierarchy of leaders/managers. The person doing a particular job ran their part in union with those whose jobs affected theirs. They found they communicated brilliantly and did their job with expertise and loved their roles. Those who found they couldn’t work without being told what to do every step of the way didn’t stay in the job for long. But saying this, this programme reminded me of some research done where people were asked about the worst aspect of their job and it wasn’t the pay. Job dissatisfaction was commonly found to be where people had no input into the running of their job (I know this to be true of myself). This correlates to how these big companies running without managers were so successful in the retention and dedication of staff. Examples of such companies were district nursing teams and agricultural plants.

        1. Interesting that people communicate well when they can feel the purpose of it and how their job satisfaction soared because they could feel they were truly working as a team in equality. A great blueprint for getting any job done.

     3. Good question, Judith. If we are needing recognition we may not be motivated to work like this but if we had a purpose to bring more harmony to the world then we would soon show others they are loved and worthwhile and then they would not need the recognition for they would be able to value themselves and feel that they are making a worthwhile contribution to the community.

     4. Judith your comment made me laugh. No more what’s in it for me. We have so much we can learn from the humble ants and how they live and work.

470. How amazing is nature and the beautiful inspirations we can gain from it. Eg the brotherhood in a colony of ants.

471. It’s amazing how when you are so open and honest about something that the answer is delivered in any way shape or form, be it animals, leaves, feathers or another person. The fact that you weren’t ‘needing’ the answer or looking for the answer is when the answer appears.

472. It is a great leader who knows that they do not always have to lead.

     1. A true leader recognises that we are all equal and some need more support than others to ‘step into their power’ and claim themselves in full. The greatest support comes from someone standing by your side, not looking down at you from a place of superiority.

        1. Well said Alison – superiority is definitely not true leadership – it just fosters more of ‘right and wrong’ ideals and beliefs rather than true brotherhood in equal-ness together.

     2. Yes, how lovely to be able to allow others to lead when they are impulsed to do so. What comes from that is then shaped by the whole group and this is a much more powerful contribution than that of one person, no matter how brilliant they may be in their field.

473. I so agree with you, Alexis! Often the best leaders are the ones who are never in the limelight -this is true of some of our politicians (who do the real work quietly behind the scenes).

     One thing that really amazes me is that some company CEOs and other officers ask for (and get) an ‘incentive’ to do their job-such as share allocations or bonus shares. One wonders why they took on the job in the first place if they need an incentive to work hard for the company? Imagine if the Queen Ant, or any of her colony did that!

     1. Very true Anne, this says much about their real motives. It’s really a game of self gain, rather than having purpose to serve for the greater good of all mankind. As a society, we have allowed this ‘self gratification’, greed, to be very prevalent, unfortunately.

474. Brilliant article – well worth sharing – and a new way of thinking for any leader of a group: ‘I knew what I had to do – to stay focused on purpose, to bring everyone with me in my team as equal leaders, and to support a way of working together where everyone was evolving.’

475. Indeed Katie – I was just imagining what our human race would look like if we modelled ourselves on how ants worked together! We would be far more productive in a shorter period of time, we would have no leadership battles or bickering and everyone would be valued equally!

476. So true, they just get on with what needs to be done. No comparison, no jealousy, no holding back and no domination. It’s pure harmony at play

477. I once heard that in order to be a good and effective leader, you need to also know how to be a good an effective supporter, neither of which is more or less important than the other.

478. What stands out here is the equal commitment of each ant to the job that needs to be done, each one taking turns to lead. It’s an amazing learning for us humans from such a tiny creature.

479. Ants are indeed a lovely reflection for us when it comes down to true teamwork in the detail. I loved the part where the roles change depending on age and needs of the colony. So both the individual ant is taken into consideration as the whole. On that point we can learn a lot. It is very inclusive, keeps the ‘elderly’ part of the colony with a suitable but doable role.

480. The answers to all our ‘woes’ have been given; we have simply forgotten where to look. And so, we would sooner step on an ant than take heed of the divinity they reflect and the message that they deliver: to work together in harmony and help each other out. How very lost are we when this is true, considering that in our ancient past we were well aware that ‘as above, so below’. Now it seems we are so busy gazing skywards for the answers, we forget to look for the messages at our feet. And we think we are evolving…

481. Feels for me that key is here the purpose. Ants live and act all for one purpose, the living and growing of the ant-community. With this purpose they got a strong guiding principle. And what a great question to ask: what if we would live and act like that? What would it be like to have ‘for the good of all’ as the foundational principle of our every day living? Could it be that this is our future, the way of living we have to come back too? I guess so.

482. Nature, and in this example, ants, reflect so much to us human beings. True teamwork where everybody is a leader, where it is about true purpose and that we are all leaders and all equal, how beautiful is that. And this is all coming from ants, wow!

483. I love the way you’ve shared this powerful reflection from nature and appreciate that you took the time to stop and observe, then share with us. It seems ants have mastered team work and perhaps they should be leading all corporate team building workshops!!! It is interesting that they truly work together, each a leader as the task demands.

484. I agree the ant is amazing it is fascinating to watch an art farm and see how they work together. There is so much that we can learn from the reflection of nature.

485. It is beautiful how in nature are all the reflections we need to learn how to be.

486. Nature has always been and will always be simple… we are the ones that have chosen to make it complicated. When we connect back to the simplicity of nature the path for brotherhood becomes clear.

487. Ants are great communicators supporting each other for the benefit of the whole community. I wonder what ants – and other animals – learn from humans?

488. Just goes to show that God is in the detail…

     1. Yes Adam, God is in the detail – love it !

489. When we are open for it we find that nature is such an inspiration to teach us whatever we need to know and take advantage of. Nature is constantly reflecting to us where we are and where we have to go next, as long as we are open to this truth that nature in fact is is reflecting to us constantly.

490. Leadership and equality going hand in hand, leadership as a service to my fellow brothers, leadership without any aspiration to be special or dominant – powerfull, revolutionary and a testimony of true love and brotherhood.

     1. I would agree too Alex, the best leaders I have ever had felt like they were just part of the team, one of the workers. There was no competitiveness or one-upmanship going on, no group dynamics even; we all just got on with our jobs, knowing what we needed to do, and at the same time being there for our colleagues at the drop of a hat if they needed support. All because the leader felt we were all equal, no more no less.

     2. I agree Alex, and it is this quality of leadership that I see in Serge Benhayon, his family and Universal Medicine practitioners.

     3. Lovely Alex. Leadership as part of the whole and a necessary role, not seeking to glorify oneself as the leader and claim the successes of the team as their own.

        1. That feels so spacious, doesn´t it? Only truth can feel like that, hence it is inevitable the future to come.

        2. So beautifully said Alex and Lee.

     4. Indeed Alex. This is where we are heading and this is exactly my experience of Serge Benhayon and what he presents with Universal Medicine. An example of true leadership with no desire to dominate or exert power. Serge’s leadership comes with absolute equalness and a love for his equal brothers that can be very deeply felt.

     5. I love this Alex, as true leadership is a shared experience, one that sees ones peers as equals and is not about recognition but working together that is true brotherhood in action.

491. To understand oneself as being part of a community, a greater whole first and foremost, and hence the purpose that comes with it to serve the all, is so the opposite of the usual human individualism and self-centeredness that only seeks self-gratification. So much selflessness as shown by the ants is fascinating and disturbing (for the individual) at once.
     I certainly can feel the questions coming up: “And what about me?”, “Who will I be when it is all about the community?”. And at the same time there is an inkling of the immense freedom and deep contentment self-lessness and service for all would bring. Indeed an evolutionary choice.

492. I am blessed to know and work with some really excellent leaders at the moment and the thing that they have in common is that they put people first. If you put people first then all else basically falls into place. The problem for most people is that they carry deep hurts with regard to how people have treated them in the past and at some level of themselves have rejected people. We have to deal with our hurts before we can be effective leaders and work as a true team.

     1. This is very true Elizabeth. Great leaders place people at the helm of their considerations – not a list of outcomes that they want to see happen at the expense of everyone. Leadership from the basis of nurturing people builds people and has the potential to be evolutionary.

     2. Well said Elizabeth and so true. Once we have healed these hurts we are so free to get on with what needs to be said and so less reactive to what goes on around us. But for many, there is simply not the awareness of how much hurt people are actually carrying. It needs to start with some self-awareness and then a willingness to look at and then heal.

     3. This is true Elizabeth, which is why teamwork/groupwork is so important, because it brings up these hurts that we could otherwise conveniently keep buried. Working together provides an amazing opportunity to deal with what we have tried very hard not to feel. As confronting as it may be sometimes there is actually nothing more natural than working cohesively together in equal brotherhood.

     4. Very powerful what you have written Elizabeth “We have to deal with our hurts before we can be effective leaders and work as a true team”. Honesty about where your at in a team helps to stay with the team if your hurting. The focus should stay as a part of the team with full commitment coming back to the purpose always to keep the team together.

493. I agree Katie. Everything provides us with something to learn.

     1. What I love is everywhere we look, go etc.. we have the opportunity to learn something. Even so called ‘bad’ moments we can still learn something from, we just have to be open to what we are being shown.

     2. Yes, it is all laid out there before us in the most simple and amazing way in nature.

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