Wednesday, May 13th, 2009

NICE SNAKES

Narcisse, Manitoba

Manitoba holds the title for the largest convergence of snakes in the world. The red sided garter snakes hibernate in the multitudes in limestone bedrock dens for the same lenth of time that a bear hides for the winter. When the females come out of the dark den, the males approach them which causes an incredible cluster of snakes resembling balls of moving spaghetti.

The courtship of thousands upon thousands of them is what attracted a group of us to look in awe at one of mother nature's fantastic wonders. Most people have a phobia about snakes but these guys are quite harmless. Since the day was cool, overcast and rainy, we could not see the maximum effect of snake conglomeration, but we are told that the local Highway #17 is usually covered with snakes who make their journey for 10 to 20 km slithering around after mating to search for food. If you think this is creepy, how about at peak mating season when they crawl all over your feet?

I'm inclined to think of the numerous snake images outlined in the Vedas and how in almost all cases the snake portrays some act of benevolence. There are many support companions of Lord Shiva who are all cobras. Sesa-naga, the massive thousand-hooded snake that holds up the cosmic world and keeps a balance. And there is the ancient story of the collosal serpent Vasuki who assisted in churning the milk ocean in order toevoke some of the great treasures of the worlds. Snakes generally have a bad rap, but in the Vedic stories you find mostly positive profiles.

Ther snakes were a joy to see. No bites, no poison. The poison I feel comes from a plant. Yes, from the West Virginia trip I contracted some juices from poison ivy. So the rash is on. On my right arm.

Walking a nine kilometre stretch in Winnipeg became a challenge. Midway through came a nasty cold rain that would not let up for the entire day. The snakes were a highlight in addition to the Nine Devotions workshop conducted in the evening. There was a wonderful response from the people who attended.

9 Km