The movie version of one of my favorite novels, The
Secret Life of Bees, opened in theaters last week. This beautiful story, by
Sue Monk Kidd, of friendship, transformation, redemption and a deep mystery has
enchanted readers for several years. I have not seen the movie yet. In fact, it
is one of those books I loved so much that I am a little nervous to actually
see the film version. But since I know my curiosity and the good reviews will
get me there, I picked up the novel again to acquaint me again with the
compelling characters.
The young girl who is the central character receives
powerful life lessons from an older woman who happens to be a bee keeper. She teaches
her ‘bee yard etiquette.’ “She reminded
me that the world was really one big bee yard, and the same rules worked fine
in both places: Don’t be afraid, as no life-loving bee wants to sting you.
Still, don’t be an idiot; wear long sleeves and long pants. Don’t swat. Don’t
even think about swatting. If you feel angry, whistle. Anger agitates, while
whistling melts a bee’s temper. Act like you know what you’re doing, even if
you don’t. Above all, send the bees love. Every little thing wants to be
loved.”
As always, my powerful need to underline in books has this
passage readily visible as you flip through the pages. Here is something to
remember. I think of this wisdom every year around State Fair time when bees
fly around anything sweet they can detect. But these words are about so much
more than bees and our urge to resist being stung. They are words to remember
whenever we are afraid….and there are so many messages meant to keep us
fearful. Resisting our fears, being smart and not swatting can get us far in
life. The idea of not even thinking about swatting takes intense practice. Remembering
the escalating effects of anger is also important. Think how many conflicts
could be solved by taking a few moments to whistle!
And most importantly, sending love. What might happen to the
world if, in every situation, in every relationship, we began by sending love? Isn’t
that at the heart of the gospel of every faith tradition? This is not a secret.
You probably won’t find many bees left in these waning days
of autumn. But bee etiquette is helpful in pretty much every situation. It
might be good to give it a try.
Have a blessed
weekend………