My favorite song as a child, was “Never Smile at a Crocodile,” from the movie Peter Pan.

It wasn’t until 30 years later that I realized the symbolic meaning of the crocodile, and the tick-tock emanating from its stomach - time and the impermanence of life. Crocodiles represent our fated conclusion on earth, but also our potential in the meantime. Traditionally a symbol of wisdom, the crocodile as an archetype invites us to a new phase of life and renewal.