Wherever people go, tiny House Mouse follows. As the world’s most widespread Rodent, He lives in a commensal relationship with people. Wiggling through a small hole, House Mouse hides in a warm place in the house. He makes his nest in a small drawer, where He can easily find snacks unimpeded
Using his keen senses of smell and hearing, House Mouse sniffs out food. He will eat anything from soap to candles but much prefers seeds. A highly adaptable animal, House Mouse will try new foods. He will nibble on people’s food stores. Unfortunately for the people, House Mouse transmits diseases and parasites to them.
Living in the spaces created by people’s “footprints”, House Mouse enjoys exploring his environment. Unlike Rat, He does not fear novel objects, but will investigate them. As House Mouse explores, He learns about everything in his domain. He memorizes pathways, shelter, Cat, everything in his world. House Mouse’s exploring keeps Him safe since He knows where all the hiding places are. In spite of being a small animal and being hunted by predators, He has such richness to his life that comes from his inquisitive nature.
In European traditions, House Mouse was a manifestation of the human soul. Because He lived underground in dark places, House Mouse was believed to travel from the World of People to the Underworld. When He ran over a person’s body, death was imminent.
House Mouse loves to explore. He travels along secret paths and find routes to food or refuge from danger. In spite of being such a small animal, House Mouse knows a lot about his world. Although Owl may abruptly end his life, House Mouse continues on exploring. He demonstrates the true spirit of discovery.
House Mouse’s Teachings Include:
“Mouse is a cheerful guide who can teach you to enjoy the small things that compose the great adventure we call life.”Copyright: “Through the Unremembered Gate”, Tira Brandon-Evans.
Picture of "Mouse" copyrighted by Mary Ann Sterling
Va. Carper
May 14, 2004