Encounter with Bees

Today, I had a negative interaction with nature. It’s interesting to me, because this class is making me more aware and appreciative of nature. Our readings and discussions makes me want to visit a National Park or plan a camping trip. Prior to this class I viewed nature as something pristine and far away- like National Geographic or Planet Earth content. I thought it was something I would never actually witness or experience. However, nature is all around us and it can be just as beautiful and interesting as some gorgeous landscape we may see a picture of or watch on television; however, it can be much more difficult to notice and appreciate.

Today, I found myself unappreciative of one of nature’s gifts: bees. Now I realize that most people don’t like bees and I’m not proposing that we should want to be around bees; however, I think it’s interesting that we can be so quick to find the negative in something without appreciating all the positive things it has to offer.

I was at MUTTS dog park enjoying a nice day with some friends and we decided to order some food for lunch. However, when I was at the counter ordering my food and trying to get a drink, bees were swarming the entire area. They were everywhere and their presence was interfering with my enjoyment of the day. I became frustrated and annoyed that I had to sit and eat outside with bees surrounding me.

It wasn’t until after the experience that I reflected on my reaction to the bees. I was annoyed that they interrupted my meal. However, it’s ironic, because I wanted to eat outside and naturally bees live outside, so I run the risk of encountering them. Also, I should appreciate bees, because two of my favorite things are flowers and honey- both of which bees are responsible for.

I just find it interesting and appreciate this course for opening my eyes to the nature surrounding me. I find it funny I was so naïve about how the world functions around me. I hope after this class I continue to appreciate the nature around me and seek new opportunities to interact with it.