DIVINE PROTECTION: MY SNAKE-FILLED JOURNEY- BY ABIODUN MOSHOOD

During my National Youth Service, I encountered a series of terrifying snake encounters that would change my perspective on life. It began on a fateful night when I was making a phone call at a street junction. As I sat on a flower bed, a poisonous black snake slithered through my legs. I leapt up, shouting "Snake! Snake!" and ran for my life. Thankfully, passersby came to my rescue, and we killed the snake.

That night, I couldn't shake off the feeling of mortality. I thanked God for sparing my life. Little did I know, a similar incident would claim the life of a local Imam. He had been bitten by a snake, unaware of the danger lurking within. The irony was striking – a man who once cured snake bites fell victim to one.

My encounters didn't end there. One afternoon, while a fellow corps member slept inside, I lay on a bench outside. A visitor arrived, and as I attended to him, a long green snake appeared inside the room. My colleague's warning cry saved me from potential disaster. We managed to coax the snake out and escape unharmed.

Another close call occurred when I spotted a ferocious snake hanging above the water in a well. With quick thinking, my colleague and I used a long stick to rescue the snake, and then, we stoned it to death.

These experiences left me shaken, but grateful for divine protection. I realized the importance of prayer and staying close to God. My service year became a journey of faith, and I've emerged with a deeper appreciation for life's fragility. In the face of uncertainty, put your trust in God, the ultimate protector and planner. Let these encounters serve as a reminder to stay vigilant and faithful.

© ABIODUN MOSHOOD O. (AMO)

- Nigeria