I just got the why snakes from my mother today after bringing the new girl home.. My response was u let me have one when I was 10 and y not.. They don't stink they don't make noise they are easy to care for and cheap to feed compared to a cat/dog..
She was speechless as it all made perfect sense to her.. Then went on to admit shes more afraid of having the snakes dinner get loose then having the snake itself get out..
Next thing u know shes holding her and taking pix to show her friends at work..
I really think that there's a big lack of understanding by a lot of ppl that haven't ever actually had the opportunity to realize how calm and sweet these creatures can be