A few evenings ago I was reviewing activities my aunt and I had planned for an upcoming nature program about reptiles.
I thought of how these denizens of the animal kingdom strike fear in some, but they are also frequently used to symbolize transformation.
In many cultural interpretations and symbols, snakes in particular are considered an auspicious sign signaling growth, change, and awakening.
As a former natural science museum educator, I've embraced the opportunity to learn about many desert species of snakes, including our venomous rattlesnakes.
I have enjoyed even more the opportunity to change the negative perception of snakes (often witnessing a mini-transformation so to speak), one  person at a time  as new found appreciation and respect was engaged in individuals through new understanding about an animal they initially rejected.
I can't help but appreciate the lesson found in the life of a snake, and our quest for change in some area of our own lives.
Think about the familiar analogy of transformation that occurs when a snake sheds its skin.
The biology of the shedding process, as applied to a snake, easily holds true for us when we are on the brink of personal transformation.
Back to my museum days, our classroom snakes underwent noticeable changes that signaled when they were about to shed, beginning with a time of inactivity, followed by dull coloration, and the cloudy, blue-white hue of the eyes that impaired their vision.
Students and staff knew not to handle snakes during this time as it could make even the friendliest snakes unpredictable, and a little cranky.
Now think about times in your life when you were about to go through some kind of transformation.
Or perhaps you are on the verge of one right now? These exciting times can be a valuable tool for recognizing when you are ready for growth! Consider these indicators:

• There is a time of inaction in your life, a sense of boredom, a rut, or the stall of indecision.
  
• Metaphorically speaking, your personal vision is temporarily clouded and maybe you are experiencing a little restlessness, frustration, loss of direction, or fear and,
• you can't quite place your finger on why a solid answer, a sense of connection, or your goal eludes you now.
  

I mentioned above that this is an exciting time, because in response to these precursors, an internal shift begins your process of transformation, when you are ready.
For a snake this is a hormonal response to growth, and instinct guides its next step (which is to use anything solid in its environment to slough old skins)-not unlike your innate desire for shedding any constricting beliefs that no longer benefit you and are now holding you back.
I realize you many not be ready to fully embrace snakes - but are you ready to transform your life? Let instinct guide you to draw on the solid support that make up your environment: friends, family, even a personal coach! Do not reject or fear the powerful, positive changes of which you are capable.
Instead, wriggle free from limiting perceptions about yourself, and appreciate this auspicious opportunity to transform your life! Now get growing...