The Theosophical Society as a world-wide movement always was an early adopter of new developments in society and the world at large, and since it carries a great responsibility towards our planet, it would be appropriate if it starts playing that vanguard-role once again. It is both possible and challenging to show members from all four corners of the globe, people in India and all other world citizens how one can renovate and maintain those impressive, monumental buildings on the Adyar estate in a sustainable manner, recognizing our obligations towards Gaia and future generations. Accepting our accountability it is our objective to make all of the Adyar estate energy neutral, cleaning our waste water and re-using it, thus demonstrating how humans can live in sacred communion with nature, realizing that there is but One Life.
Why “The Elephants?”
As a symbol of strength, the elephant inspires us to be strong and patient at the same time; it relies on conscious thought and patience to meet all its needs.
The Elephants at Headquarters Building
Michiel and the elephants
When Michiel gave a presentation at a symposium at the University of Johannesburg in 2014, he also had the opportunity to visit different parks to appreciate some of the wild-life in South-Africa. He went to a specific location where elephants were cared for until they were to be released back into the wild. There he had his first encounter with these extraordinary animals and walked “hand in trunk” with them!
In January 2015 Michiel and Helma visited Adyar to further work on the renovation project of the estate. Michiel loves to swim in the sea after a busy and hot day of working on and walking over the estate, while Helma always joins him in that activity on the beach. On one occasion Michiel received a present from the sea. After a big wave had hit him, inside the water he felt some rock-hard object touching his hand. He grabbed it, and it appeared to be a small wooden elephant; clearly a special welcome gift from the Gulf of Bengal.
Michiel and the elephant, hand in trunk
The elephant given to Michiel by the Gulf of Bengal