Shells

Just as each of shells around campus takes on a slightly different appearance, so they have multiple meanings and representations to me. Of course, as we have already noted, they represent a pilgrimage to the shrine of a saint, or for us, a more figurative pilgrimage, a pilgrimage to the ultimate goal of our studies here at UT. For me, the shell is a reminder that my future is out there, even though right now I don’t know what that future is. As I struggle to figure out what goals and ambitions I want to pursue, I see the shell, and it never changes, just as my destiny doesn’t change; I have only to find it. And happily, I am destined to find it. In this way, the shell is a source and symbol of peace in a chaotic and tiresome world. Also, the shell is a reminder of the power of nature. The shell represents the sea, a thing so vast that no one can comprehend it. So, as I try to define my place and role in nature, the shell reminds me that I am required to play only a small part, though it seems so immensely enormous and important to me. The reference to the sea also points me up higher, to God. He is infinitely more vast even than the ocean, and knowing this gives me joy and gratitude knowing that even with such power he chose to create me and chose to love me. Because of this, I can see a shell and be reminded not only what I’m working for but also who I’m working for, which is a far greater motivation. This in turn strengthens my sense of place here—I am at home with God, and when I know and remember that He is here, so I am at home here, and that is a great comfort. Who would have ever thought that a shell could mean so much? I sure didn’t the first time we walked out of Parlin and started at the silly thing up on the wall. But then again, at that point I was still not very skilled in semiotics. Now, however, the symbols become much more apparent and logical. Yea for shells!