The Whirling Dervishes
July 11, 2009 – 6:24 am
As a I ventured out this morning extra early, I noticed some tiny moths dancing in the floodlights at the corner of my porch. They circled with such speed that they created images in the nightlight, swirling curves, quick S’s and C’s. It was quite a glorious site….until one landed on the nearby post. At that moment I realized that these swirling light-artists were in fact, termites.
Instantly I cancelled the private light show in my mind and transformed it into a panicky to-do list: call the exterminator, check for moisture around the house, seal up all the loose cracks, etc. This means war!
I have a friend whose home is currently under attack by Formosan termites and I will write a future blog on the subject in hopes that others will avoid such a disaster. But this morning, as my gut wrenched against the scene I couldn’t help but pause for one brief second and question my response.
Was I absolutely positive they were termites and not flying ants of other nightly critters? No.
Did I base my assumptions on my friends disaster? Perhaps.
Did the fact that they may be termites make the dance any less beautiful? No.
Could I do anything at that exact moment to correct the problem? No.
So why not enjoy the dance?
Many of you may be thinking that my process was a waste of time and energy, but I say to you, try it sometime. You may just be amazed at how much calmer and more well-positioned your are to respond to such calamity.
Happy Day,
PS – The little guys were too quick to photograph and I didn’t think you’d want to see a bug dance anyway.
One Response to “The Whirling Dervishes”
Recently I watched a swarm of tiny bugs dance in the middle of the back yard, flanked by sunflowers and lit by the sun. The whole scene looked like swirling DNA and I watched in silent awe while my mind played with the picture before me. It was beautiful and so very peaceful. A pleasant break from the monotany of folding laundry.
By Lynn on Jul 12, 2009