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

1. 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?’

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. “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…

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. ‘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.

9. 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.

10. 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.

11. 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.

12. 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.

13. 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.

14. 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.

15. 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.

16. 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.

17. 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.

18. 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.

19. 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.

20. 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.

21. 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.

22. 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.

23. 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.

24. 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.

25. 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.

26. 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.

27. 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.

28. 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.

29. “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.

30. 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.

31. 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.

32. 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.

33. 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?

34. 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.

35. 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.

36. 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.

37. 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.

38. 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.

39. 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.

40. 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.

41. 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.

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

43. 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.

44. 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.

45. 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.

46. “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.

47. 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.

48. 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.

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

50. There are so many humbling reflections in nature.

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

52. How beautiful the magic of God is.

53. 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.

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

55. 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.

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

57. 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.

58. “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.

59. 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.

60. 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.

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

62. 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

63. 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.

64. 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.

65. 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.

66. 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.

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

68. 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.

69. 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.

70. 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!

71. 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.

72. 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 🙂

73. “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!

74. 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.

75. 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.

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

77. 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.

78. 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.

79. 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)

80. 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.

81. 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.

82. 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.

83. 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.

84. 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.

85. 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.

86. 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.

87. 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.

88. 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.

89. 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.

90. 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?

91. 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.

92. 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.

93. 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.

94. 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.

95. “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.

96. 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.

97. 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.

98. You could almost say ant-spiring

99. 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.

100. 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.

101. 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.

102. 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.

103. 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.

104. 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.

105. 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 ☺

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

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

108. 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

109. 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.

110. 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’!).

111. ‘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.

112. 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!

113. 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

114. 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.

115. 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.

116. 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.

117. 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.

118. 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.

119. 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 .

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

121. 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.

122. 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.

123. 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.’

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

125. 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.

126. 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.

127. 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. 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.

128. 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.

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

130. 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.

131. 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

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

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

134. 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.

135. 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!

136. Size isn’t everything….

137. 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.

138. Nature, it has so much to say…

139. 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. 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 🙂

140. 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!

141. 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!

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

143. 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.

144. 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??

145. 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 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.

146. 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.

147. 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!

148. 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.

149. 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.

     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 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!!

     5. 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.

150. “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. 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.

     3. ” 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.

     4. 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?

     5. 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.

151. ‘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.

152. 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).

153. 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.

154. 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.

155. 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.

156. 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. 🙂 🙂 🙂

157. 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.

158. 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.

159. 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?

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

161. Humanity could learn so much from ants.

162. 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.

163. 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.

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

164. 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?

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

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

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

168. 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.

169. 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.

170. 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.

171. 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!

172. 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.

173. 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.

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

175. 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.

176. 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.

177. 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.

178. 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’.

179. 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…

180. 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.

181. 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.

182. 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.

183. 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.

184. 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. 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.

185. 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. 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.

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

     3. 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!!

     4. 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?

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

     6. 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.

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

     8. 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.

186. 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.

187. 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.

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

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

190. 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.

191. 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.

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

193. 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?

194. 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.

195. “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.

196. 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!

197. 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.

198. 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. 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.

     2. 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.

199. 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.

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

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

202. 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. 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.

203. 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.

204. 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.

205. ‘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

206. 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.

207. 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.

208. 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.

209. 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.

210. 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.

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

212. 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.

213. 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.

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

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

216. 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.

217. ‘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.

218. 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.

219. 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.

220. 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.

221. 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.

222. 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? 🙂

223. 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.

224. 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.

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

226. “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.

227. 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.

228. 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.

229. 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!

230. 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!

231. 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.

232. ‘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. 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.

233. 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.

234. 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.

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

236. 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.

237. 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.

238. 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.

239. 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.

240. 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.

241. 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!

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

243. 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.

244. 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.

245. 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.

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

247. 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!

248. 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

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

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

251. 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.

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

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

254. 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.

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

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

257. 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.

258. Love it Christophe.

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

260. 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.

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

262. 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.

263. 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.

264. We’d certainly be much more productive!

265. 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.

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

267. 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.

268. 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.

269. 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?

270. 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.

271. 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.

272. 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!

273. 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!

274. 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.

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

276. 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.

277. “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?? 🙂

     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.

     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.

278. 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.

279. 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.

280. “…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.

281. 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.

282. 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!

283. 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.

284. 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.

285. ‘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!

286. 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.

287. 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…

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

289. 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?!

290. 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. 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.

291. 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.

292. 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!

293. 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.

294. 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.

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

296. 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.

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

298. 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.

299. 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. 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.

300. 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.

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