In this blog we try to bring thoughts and ideas with the goal of informing and contemplating. Topically, over nearly 20 years, that has included entries on media, marketing, adversity management, and some things at times esoteric and profound. Enter a 4-pound monkey who in recent days has captured hearts, minds and media.
If you are not aware of the story, “Punch,” a baby macaque housed in Japan’s Ichikawa City Zoo, was abandoned by his mother at birth and was provided with a stuffed orangutan doll to serve as a surrogate. When first let out into the main enclosure with other monkeys, dragging his toy along, he was rejected for a time by the primary populace, often forcefully. I must admit I became emotional while watching his plight. I was not alone.
Video of Punch repeatedly retreating to his stuffed toy for comfort and protection went viral, global, with news reports spanning countries and visitors flocking to the zoo seeking to show their support. Media followed his progress daily with heart-wrenching and then heartening video of Punch finally being accepted.
As such, it was not just a one day story but begged updates. The public responded with “clicks,” conversation and emotional investment. It was, I feel and have felt for some time, a signal for media to cover more good news. After all, despite what we typically see, hear and read every day, there really is more good news than bad. It’s also one of the reasons why the preservation of community newspapers and public TV and radio is so important.
How much did we need this sweet story of triumph over tragedy through perseverance? How much did we need something like this to unify us in promise and positivity? We can all agree to the answer to that. Punch struck a chord for not only animal lovers but those among us who have ever felt rejected or socially awkward.
Here, together, we felt empathy and compassion. As we emote continued hope for Punch, we recognize that he has provided hope for us too in this inspiring shared experience. It comes at a time when we need it most.
Graphic created by author via Microsoft Bing.