Stonewall Mantis

CET Osaka, Summer 2016

Onomichi

 

I was exhausted after cycling for 4 hours through the scenic Onomichi Islands of Hiroshima when I decided to stop and walk around one of the small villages along the cycling path. Desperate to find a convenience store to quench my thirst, I stumbled around the small streets and alleys for a good 20 minutes before I took a breather and leaned my back against a stone wall. I looked to my left and was surprised to find a praying mantis looking straight at me. Sensing danger, it was completely still. I would have not have noticed it at all had I not stopped, as it blended in well with the mossy surface of the wall. The sun was setting, and it cast a long shadow on the mantis, making it seem all the more intimidating. Its menacing countenance coupled with its steadfast stillness reminded me of President Theodore Roosevelt's words: Speak softly and carry a big stick. In this case, claws were being wielded instead. Indeed, we all stand to learn the virtue of patience and composure.

Done