Before you stop reading this post and start thinking I'm "squirrely", I'm not going to spend this blog explaining why squirrels are cute and fluffy. No, there is a lot more I wish to cover that doesn't relate to the many squirrels on campus. Still, the squirrels on campus are quite interesting. I'm sure many have seen and commented about the squirrels on campus. "Why are there so many squirrels" or "Why are they digging in the trash" are probably some of the questions being asked. However, the squirrels on campus and squirrels in general are fascinating creatures and should be considered in a different light. When I go on my morning walks around campus, I enjoy seeing the many aspects of nature. That includes the squirrels that jump around on the ground and scurry up the trees. It makes you wonder why they're here, to begin with. What makes them unique from the other creatures on campus. From a young age, I have always been intrigued by all kinds of creatures, whether they be the tree frogs in the Amazon or the mighty, gentle whale shark of the ocean. When I see squirrels, I just see another bit of creation that needs to be learned from and respected.
Going back to my question, what makes squirrels unique. I believe what makes them unique is their curiosity and the many personalities they can take. I have seen many squirrels while on my walks, many of which are hesitant to be outside while others dare to brave the environment and travel for miles whether it be in the trees or on the ground. They made quite a staple on this campus, whether it be rooting around in the trash cans. Scavenging the waste of students, whose eyes are bigger than their stomachs. No offense. Also, the myth surrounding some of them. If you see a squirrel with a short tail before an exam, you will pass that exam. The opposite is if you see a short-tailed squirrel after an exam, you will most likely fail. However, that is just of superstitious campus legend that doesn't really affect your grade. Good grades come through studying and hard work preparing for the exam. Still, if you're a wee bit superstitious like me, I would go looking for a short-tailed squirrel the day before an exam. As I finish my piece, I just wanted to say that we need to look at the nature around us with a different light each time. Everything here was put here with a purpose, whether or not it was meant for humanity. Everything is connected in the great circle of life, we must learn to respect its processes. This includes respecting the squirrels on campus. They have a role and it's our job to let them complete that role.
Jumping high in the tree
The squirrel lives happy and free
Collecting its sticks and nuts
Most likely acorns and walnuts
Living its life peacefully, wouldn't you agree
Small creatures, squirrels are
They still have a big impact, near and far
From planting more trees
To raking in autumn leaves
They are one of nature's all-stars
Vincent!
ReplyDeleteI love this with all my heart. This is so genuine, and I am here for it. I think your fascination with animals is incredible, and I learned so much from this post. I never knew about the superstitions behind squirrels, and I think it is super interesting. I also agree that everything on earth is put here for a reason, so we humans shouldn't judge or question why they surround us because they have a job to do. This post showed me that we should be gracious to animals. As someone who is afraid of bugs and spiders I often forget that they are here to help us and the environment and that it is important to treat them with care. Your post reminded me of this, and for that, I applaud you. Great job! I definitely needed to read this!
This post is so intriguing! I've never heard about the myth regarding seeing a short-tailed versus long-tailed squirrel before an exam.
ReplyDeleteHi Vincent! I am also quite the animal lover and absolutely adore seeing the squirrels around on campus. I have definitely seen many different personalities in the squirrels and enjoy every one of them. There have been some who have almost walked right up to me! They're such adventurous and rambuctious little creatures and I'm so glad you have such an interest in them.
ReplyDeleteHello Vincent, what a thoughtful and unique perspective on squirrels! I love how you dive into their personalities and role in nature, turning what could be seen as a simple campus sight into something deeper and more meaningful. Your mix of humor, curiosity, and appreciation for the creatures around us really makes you stop and think about the little things we often overlook.
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