What Have You Learned from a Duckbill Platypus Lately?

True Story:

When I was in the workforce, prior to being blessed with my life as a stay-at-home mother, I recall attending a job interview in which they asked me a peculiar question, presumably to learn more about my personality:  "If you could be any animal, what animal would you be?"

I did not have to dwell on this question long before I offered them my unique answer:  "A duckbill platypus."

Clearly taken aback, they asked me, through a slight snicker, "why."

I wanted to share with you my answer:

The duckbill platypus is often considered the obvious symbol of God's sense of humor.  It is frequently made fun of, used for purposes of insulting others, and always brings a chuckle when mentioned.

Yet, it has continued to exist for tens of millions of years; growing, breeding, and thriving in its Australian land.

Imagine, if we, as a human species, were daily mocked, humiliated and insulted by the other inhabitants of our planet.  I would like to think that we would be able to mirror the duckbill platypus and rise above those tauntings to continue to flourish, proving that our species is strong and capable.

I truly believe we can all take a lesson from the duckbill platypus.  When all odds are against you, when others do not think much of you, and when you have to face mockery day in and day out, continue to persevere and thrive.  Continue to grow and adapt.  Continue to show your children that they should do the same in order to preserve the great legacy we have created as a human race.

Perhaps the duckbill platypus is not God's punchline, but rather, God's proof of tenacity and strength.

I did not get that job, but I did persevere and am a better person for it.  Thank you, duckbill platypus.