The last category of animals we’re going to examine are the reptiles, or as Ted Andrews refers to them, the Ancients. There are over 6000 species of reptiles, and while some are distant relatives of the dinosaurs, most evolved from amphibians more than 300 million years ago.
Reptiles are cold-blooded with dry, tough and scaly skin. Their strong jaws are capable of crushing their prey. Most reptiles lay eggs, though with some the young are born live. When the eggs are hatched, the youngsters must survive on their own. Various reptiles shed their skins as they outgrow them.
Symbology of The Ancients
This group of animals is symbolic of death and rebirth, transformation and resurrection. They are representative of the changes that occur within our lives, reminding us that it is necessary to shed the old before the new can come in. They remind us of the creative force waiting to spring forth following the demise of that which is no longer necessary.
Andrews cites these messages from specific reptiles:
Snake – Shedding the Old and Resurrection
Frog – Fertility and New Beginnings
Green Anole – Harmony and Peace
Gila Monster – Maintain Control and Beliefs
Tortoise – Movement through Pressure
Crocodile – Primal Strength and Creation
Everyday Help from The Ancients
While I have a difficult time being in the presence of worms, I enjoy the company of snakes. For many years, I have had a snake make her home beneath one of my low-lying shrubs. Often when I’m working in the yard I will find parts of her old skin. I live close to the MN Landscape Arboretum and upon occasion will go there and take the bog walk trail. Many times when walking there I have come upon snake sunning herself, and we have spent companionable time together. I find it interesting that snake has never left when I come upon her, but will leave when other people come close!
Snake reminds me that before I can have new changes in my life, I need to release anything that holds me back. In other words, it’s impossible to move forward while simultaneously pulling back. Snake also reminds me to pace the changes in my life, neither hesitating nor forcing the change, but allowing it to occur in it’s own natural rhythm.
Has there been a time in your life when a reptile has stepped forward to assist you?
Harmony,
Janet Roper
{ 1 trackback }
{ 0 comments… add one now }