Thanks all! Yep, this one I can talk about.
In Tibetan Lion's Roar martial arts, it's composed of three animals. One is white ape, second is Crane, and the third comes from extensive practice of the first two, and it is a Lion. The Crane martial arts are actually my primary focus. The Crane is a symbol of life, longevity, health, happiness and tranquility.
The Crane also represents the ability to handle hard situations gracefully and efficiently. It has a lot of meaning for me because it represents martial arts with a high level of awareness.. It means being able to practice without cultivating internal violence (which I've done plenty of in my lifetime :grumpy: )
There is a saying in the Lion's Roar sutra that says, "when the lion roars, all the animals in the forest are bewildered". That bewildered word has also been translated to be freeze, or pause, you get the idea. The real meaning is that when you have a spiritual awakening or spiritual realization, the rest of you adjusts to it, hopefully raising your level of consciousness and awareness. It's a positive occurrance of spiritual growth. In a way, this is like some martial arts. When you see "Lion's Roar" you think of a big mouth and a big ego, but look a little deeper, and there is something completely different going on.
There is a dispute about which Lion's Roar sutra came first, the Tibetan Bon Shamans (that predate the buddhists) have the sutra, and also the Tibetan Buddhist have it as well. I follow the shamanic side, but I have tremendous respect for the buddhists and have learned a great deal from them.
The main reason for the Buddha in the icon is to honor Uncle Bill and be a reminder of his ideals and wishes for this forum. 
