When an elephant needs to be flown from one country to another - for example, from India to the United States - its cage is full of... tiny chickens.
Yes, you read that right: small, fragile chicks.
Why? Because despite their enormous size, elephants are deeply afraid of harm. During the entire flight, the elephant stands perfectly still, not daring to move, so as not to risk stepping on any chicken. Thus the plane remains balanced, and for the elephant it is the first test of its noble nature.
Fascinated by this behavior, scientists studied the elephant's brain and discovered spindle cells - rare neurons that are also found in humans. They are associated with self-awareness, empathy and complex social perception.
In other words, an elephant is not only physically huge; he is also an emotional giant. He feels, understands and acts with quiet wisdom.
Leonardo da Vinci, deeply fascinated by nature, once wrote about elephants:
"The elephant embodies justice, reason and moderation."
He also noted,
The elephant enters the river and bathes with a certain dignity, as if he wants to cleanse himself of all evil. Never walk alone: always in a group, always guided. He is modest
Mating occurs only at night, away from the herd, and before returning to the group, the elephant is bathed. If he encounters another herd on his way, he gently pushes them aside with his trunk, taking care not to injure anyone.
But perhaps the most poignant is this:
When the elephant feels that the end is near, it leaves the herd and goes to die alone, in a secluded place.
Why? To spare the younger ones the pain of watching him die.
Out of modesty. Out of compassion. Out of dignity.
Three rare virtues. Even among people.
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