A snail is very often looked down on as a pest. But not to me. In my eyes, they are gentle, yet strong, like a hidden gem that sparkles and shine from within the busy crowded city.

I still remember, when I was 17, I killed my first snail, one that I stepped on by accident. Up until now, I can still hear the crushing sound of it’s huge shell. Ever since then, I will pay extra attention with my steps especially post rainy days. If I do see them, I’ll pick it up and put them on any grass patch and away from the concrete sidewalk which exposes them to danger. This has become a habit that puts a smile on my face.

 

The inspiration of this piece of artwork was sparked by my longstanding admiration for this little creature as well as what I had witnessed in my tiny fish tank. In the little fish tank world, I saw the birth of many little snails. They are hard workers who worked tirelessly cleaning up the waste, debris and algae. Watching them work, it makes me wonder constantly why they are wrongly accused of as pests when in fact they are doing such good work and a vital part of life cycle.  In the circle of life, any species that becomes overpopulated tends to create an imbalance.

 

I hope more of you can learn to appreciate  the beauty of this little fella that God has wonderfully created. 

Message for this story: Hidden gems are only meant for the eyes who appreciate. One who stands in the crowd not because he/she was told to do so,, but because it is placed there with a higher purpose. A hidden gem shines on its own, it’s value precious, just like a diamond in the rough.

 

Material: Pure silver, sterling silver, cubic zirconia.