The Art of Mindful Exterminating
Thursday September 4, 2008
The hornet and I are one.
When the hornet flies fast,
I fly fast.
When attempting to relocate hornets, you really need to feel peaceful. Hornets themselves are not inherently peaceful beings, and only a steadfast calm will make them follow you in a similarly tranquil manner. You will be tested, but with mindful actions and awareness of breath, the hornets will be driven out peacefully.
Easier meditated than done, a Japanese monk discovered while trying to remove hornets from his temple. The Buddhist monk panicked when a wave of angry hornets attacked him. He dropped the lit torch, which he was using to burn the hornet's nest, and ran from the temple. Fire quickly engulfed the structure, which is now just a pile of ashes.
Perhaps trying to light their nest on fire wasn't the most peaceful extermination method.
More DIY Exterminator Escapades:
Featured User Photo: Bee on Clover
Tuesday September 2, 2008
This beautiful photo of a bumblebee foraging on a clover blossom was captured by Jon, an active member of the insects forum. Jon, who goes by the screenname olmail, just started photographing insects this summer. He found this clover blossom interesting, and when the bee landed on it, he knew it would make a cool picture.
Jon's a retired mail carrier, who says having a slower lifestyle led him to notice the birds in his yard. He began taking short walks to improve his health, and as he walked, he observed the birds along the way. As he got interested in birds, he decided to try taking photos of them. His walks got longer and his photography improved. He started paying attention to things like butterflies and dragonflies, and soon began taking their pictures, too. Now he frequently shares his insect photos with other About users through the insects forum.
Jon used a Canon 400d camera with a handheld ef70-300 lens to take this excellent image. He found his subject while walking a local bike path near where he lives in Ohio.
A Few More of Jon's Insect Photos:
If you'd like to comment on this image or ask a question about it, you can chat with Jon in the insects forum.
