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With Mayo Clinic oncologist Edward T. Creagan, M.D.

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January 17, 2008 12:39 p.m.

The ant and the grasshopper

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By Edward T. Creagan, M.D.

I am appreciative to the members of our community for the interpretation and clarification of the fable, the ant and the grasshopper. Let me weigh in with some observations and experiences.

I think each of these characters has something to offer. The ant was diligent and was a planner, but I am sensing was isolated and lonely. I do not get the sense that he was a "happy camper." The grasshopper, on the other hand, seems to be filled with joy and an upbeat character. However, he did not have a long-term focus. So, what is the take home message from these two creatures?

From my view, it is important to glance into the rearview mirror of life to remember our mistakes and our shortcomings and profit from them. By the same token, we also need to stand on our small ladders of life, look to the horizon to somewhat anticipate what may lie ahead fully recognizing that none of us are prophets.

However, we miss the beauty and the magic of each day if we spend too much time looking forward or too much time looking backward. So, in their own way, the grasshopper and the ant were each correct, and we can learn from them.

I often reflect on the lessons that others have shared with me but I was too self absorbed to really hear what others were saying. How have members of our community learned from the mistakes of the past?

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6 comments posted

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February 27, 2008 11:32 a.m.

I like the ideas presented here,but we all need to remember not everyone is physically able to work. That having been said, I think that Stuart Welwood summed it up best. Thanks for everyone`s comments. I think we all benefit from eachother`s point of view.

- No name given

February 20, 2008 10:47 p.m.

The ant and the grasshopper The fable was read to me as a child back in the 50’s, it was one of my favorites. I read it to my daughter as well. One doesn’t need to be a prophet to realize you have to eat tomorrow. It is plain and simple, you must work to survive. Maybe the ant was happy as he was working, it happens! The lesson is if you play around all day and don’t work you don’t eat. That is unless of course, the one who has worked hard is generous to you.

- Carol

January 26, 2008 5:14 a.m.

I think the ant and grasshopper both have a message. Life is a daily balancing act of planning, working and relaxing. Getting the daily mix or ratio of each is the creative part of living and surviving.

- Gerry

January 24, 2008 3:55 a.m.

Frankly, I'd go with the ant any day. It's a planner, which takes care of he future !

- Carlton Figg

January 23, 2008 1:08 p.m.

Not to belabor the point, but maybe another way to look at this is to realize that enjoying "the beauty and the magic of each day" does not mean to forget the past or be complacent about the future.

- Stuart Welwood

January 22, 2008 10:19 a.m.

thank you - good to keep in mind

- No name given