Sunday, 28 July 2013

Connecting


I have been watching some crazy insects dive bombing the trees at dusk. They have moved too fast to be recognised, though through some research (thank you Google!), I believe they may be the close relative of the May bug beetle, the Summer Chafer. I imagine them to sleep through the heat of the day soaking up the sun's energy which they release every evening in a free-spirited dance of eating, joie de vivre and mating.

When Pixie suggested we connect with a creature that comes into our garden, at first I could only think of  my cats, other cute furry creatures or maybe a hedgehog - in my urban fenced-in setting we don't have visits from anything that can't burrow under or jump over high fences! If I was to go down the insect path at all, then it would surely be something of beauty like the butterfly.

When connecting with the animal kingdom one doesn't normally immediately feel an affinity with a beetle after all. So seemingly lacking in personality and nobility.

 But then, as I read her lesson I realised the connection I have to these particular crazy creatures and that maybe their visits are trying to show me who I am right now.

I am the person that can't settle to one task for long
I am easily distracted from my present course
I want to 'taste' everything
I am a seeker
I thrive in a group but am still individual
Sometimes I seem and indeed feel directionless
My creativity most often comes alive of an evening

The chafer begins its life as a grub before being granted its wings. It goes through the process of metamorphosis - just like me. I am pulling free of the old and embracing the new but bringing my soul with me. I admire the spirited dancing of the beetles as they embrace a new freedom. But they are not alone - they fly in groups, celebrating and living together.

Interestingly, although there were many of these unidentified, quite large 'buzzing' creatures flying around above me, I did not feel in any way threatened or irritated. They were simply there - enjoying doing their thing. They kept their distance as I kept mine and we watched each other.

The heavy downpours and thunder of last night may have sent them scurrying for shelter, but I hope they will be back tonight. I want to sit outside in the twilight and connect. I think they may have some answers for me.