In the timeless shade of the Angkor Wat forest, a quiet drama unfolded—one that speaks to the very core of what it means to love and belong. I was fortunate enough to witness a moment so tender and raw, it felt less like a scene from nature and more like a story from our own human families.
A mother monkey was gently cradling her newborn, her arms wrapped around the tiny bundle with unmistakable affection. Nearby, her older daughter—a spirited young monkey—watched with eyes that flickered between longing and something more complicated: jealousy.
At first, the young monkey hesitated, stepping closer as if hoping to join the embrace. But when her mother’s attention remained focused on the baby, her face tightened with an expression I recognized instantly—the unmistakable sting of feeling left out.
She turned away, crossing her arms and huffing softly. It was a reaction I’ve seen many children and even adults make when love feels divided.
What struck me most was how profoundly relatable this moment was. The jealousy wasn’t born from selfishness but from a deep human-like fear—the fear of being replaced, forgotten, or less loved.
I thought of so many families where a new child arrives, and older siblings struggle to find their place again. I thought of friendships strained when time or attention shifts. The emotions that ripple through the monkey troop mirrored so many human stories.
The mother monkey, sensing the silent plea, did something remarkable. She gently shifted her position, patting her older daughter softly on the back, opening her arms wider.
Slowly, the young monkey softened. She approached again, this time leaning in beside her sibling and mother, accepting the love being offered.
It was a silent promise that love isn’t a limited resource—it expands when shared.
This quiet moment beneath the canopy of Angkor Wat wasn’t just about monkeys. It was about family, vulnerability, and the courage to face difficult feelings.
Jealousy can feel isolating, but it can also be a doorway—leading to understanding, forgiveness, and stronger bonds.
So if you ever feel that pang of jealousy or fear of being left behind, remember the young monkey in Angkor Wat. Remember how her mother’s gentle patience made space for her heart to heal.
Love is big enough for all of us.
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(Leave space here to insert an image — suggested: a young monkey looking jealous or sad while mother hugs the baby monkey)
