Lessons from Orangutan

Lessons from Orangutan: Kindness in Nature and Wisdom in Choices

Edisi Indonesia: Pelajaran dari Orangutan

Folklore from Borneo (Kalimantan)

Once, a curious boy from the Dayak tribe ventured deep into the forest. Lost in the dense foliage, nightfall brought confusion about his way back to the village. Thankfully, he stumbled upon a cave, a haven for shelter.

As he slept, the boy was startled by the sound of an orangutan. Fear gripped him momentarily, yet the gentle creature showed no aggression. Instead, it provided food and shelter, shielding him from the elements.

In the cave's refuge, the boy observed the orangutan's ways—its tree-climbing prowess, foraging skills, and harmonious interaction with the environment. From this intelligent and serene creature, he absorbed invaluable lessons.

When the weather cleared, the boy set out for home. Grateful for the orangutan's aid, he left a piece of cloth as a token of gratitude before departing.

Back in the village, he shared his profound experience, enriched with newfound wisdom from the forest.

This tale underscores the significance of learning from the natural world and its inhabitants. The orangutan symbolizes wisdom and the knowledge derived from life experiences.

Moral Message: Learning from Nature

Folklore often reflects the moral lesson of learning from nature. Nature serves as a tutor, imparting lessons of cooperation, balance, and wisdom. It teaches the essence of respecting and nurturing our environment, offering insights applicable to daily life.

The story accentuates the benevolence of nature portrayed through the compassionate orangutan, advocating the importance of prudent decision-making. It exemplifies how nature showcases goodness, emphasizing how our choices impact our rapport with the natural world.