Om gam ganapataye namaha!
I am told that Ganesha prevents us from hurting ourselves when we are taking on a new journey or endeavor that is not well planned or is created based upon invalid assumptions. This elephant-headed figure with its four arms and broken tusk is a symbolic tool for enlightenment to many. Within the delicate detailed carving is much symbolism: reminders to be careful of arrogance, and to steer clear of venturing down a self-defeating path. Since the our time here on earth is temporary, we are reminded to become unattached to our material worldly possessions and instead peruse the fullness of wisdom which leads us to enlightenment.