In the serene landscapes of Daliang Mountain, Ninghai County, Ningbo City, Zhejiang Province, a remarkable friendship unfolds daily between an elderly Buddhist nun, a monk, and Xing Xing, a Tibetan macaque.
Xing Xing, whose name means \"star\" in Chinese, is not your typical temple resident. Missing an arm, this resilient macaque has become an internet sensation, captivating hearts with her unique bond with the temple's caretakers over the past 15 years.
Her journey to Yanghu Temple was anything but easy. Originally part of a circus, Xing Xing was rescued by a compassionate villager who released her into the wild. Her life took a challenging turn when she lost her arm in a wild boar trap. It was by chance that she found her way to Yanghu Temple, where the kind monk reached out to the local zoo for help, ensuring her collar was safely removed and providing her a sanctuary.
Every morning, Xing Xing greets the day with a meal at the nun's door, only to return to the mountain as night falls. Living alongside the temple's elderly inhabitants has imbued her with surprisingly human-like behaviors. She skillfully shells peanuts and sunflower seeds and often mimics the contemplative poses of her caretakers, gazing thoughtfully at the distant mountains from her favorite carved stone basin.
Despite her domesticated life, Xing Xing retains her wild spirit. Like many wild animals, she can become defensive if she feels threatened or startled. Visitors to the temple are advised to maintain a respectful distance, allowing Xing Xing to thrive in her peaceful environment without feeling uneasy.
The story of Xing Xing, the nun, and the monk is a heartwarming example of harmony between humans and wildlife, showcasing the profound connections that can form when kindness and patience prevail.
Reference(s):
Bonds beyond species: A nun, a monk and a monkey share a temple
cgtn.com
