The Lizard has symbolic significance for many. The behavior pattern of the lizard has inspired various beliefs, myths, and legends associated with the sun. In Australia, the Aborigines believed that the lizard was sacred. In ancient Egypt and Greece, the lizard represented divine wisdom and good fortune   In Roman mythology, lizards supposedly slept through the winter and so symbolized both death and resurrection. Throughout the Mediterranean region, the lizard is regarded as a family friend. In Egyptian hieroglyphics, the lizard is used to depict "plentiful". In much of Africa, lizards are viewed as protective spirits. However, in early Christian ideology, lizards were viewed as the paler version of the serpent and as such were associated with the Devil and with evil. While on the Pacific islands of Polynesia and to the Maoris of New Zealand, lizards were viewed as gods. Outside of the religious context, lizards are said to represent "contemplative ecstasy" because of the way they bask motionless in the sun for hours. Closer to home, the lizard is growing in popularity as evidenced in the clever Geico commercials and its adoption as the chosen symbol for the Black Swamp Arts Festival held annually in Bowling Green, Ohio. One of my earlier drawings, I hope you enjoy looking at it as much as I enjoyed drawing it.