stages of meditation

​What do you interpret from this painting? Take a look at what's happening and what do you feel this represents. We'll wait......For us this can be interpreted in many ways. Originally it represents the different stages of meditation. But If you are on the path to enlightenment, life is meditation. This represents the diff stages to enlightenment or moments of clarity that we all have. Enlightenment is a grandiose word, and is blown out of proportion. So we like to use the word clarity. You might have experienced a moment of enlightenment this morning or late last night during your favorite song. The elephant represents our mind and how it becomes more clear after experiencing moments of darkness. If you look between the man and the elephant you will see a flame. This could be different situations or circumstances in our life that either cause us to become more confused, or more aware of ourselves. The monkey in this picture is constantly tormenting the elephant and distracting it from its path.  This represents fear, anxiety, doubt, hopelessness, regret, guilt and many other negative feelings. The man represents our consciousness. Now that word is confusing and shouldn't be thrown around lightly. But keep in mind how the man is always separate from the situation, He lets it control him in a nervous anxious manner  , until he becomes calm, balanced and in control.