Snakes...and tea

Monday was pretty raw, as we learned of the tragic murders in Orlando. Anger and frustration at the impotence and inability of Congress to enact laws to protect their citizens, mingled with deep sorrow and pain for the victims and their families.

As is our usual custom, my husband and I went for a walk at the local park. Ahead of us we observed a jogger doing an unexpected leap. As we got closer we saw why - a snake! A copperhead, to be exact. We three stood there watching it slowly slither away, completely unperturbed by the near collision with the jogger.

I have friends who are very much into animal symbolism, so I decided to look up snakes. This is what I discovered:

"In ancient traditions as well as modern times, snakes are symbols of healing powers and opportunities. In the Greek mythology, Aesclepius, the god of medicine, is featured with two snakes climbing up a rod, the symbol of what is known today as the Caduceus."

What a perfect symbol for this day! Healing for the families in Orlando, the monumental efforts by the doctors and medical staff in Orlando to save what lives they could, and maybe opportunity for Congress to finally find their spines and souls.

My tea and mug couldn't have been more perfect. A white tea with mint and roses, appropriately named *Sense of Peace*, and my mug with this message:

Peace be with you, Orlando.