It was a beautiful Spring like August day. The days are growing longer again and the Sun feels more radiant than even a couple of weeks ago. I was enjoying a weeding project when all of a sudden I came upon a more tough and dry clay like patch of lighter earth. As I prodded around to loosen the roots with the little rake, I noticed movement next to the small wooden post, where I just removed some grass.

I carefully scanned the area after seeing a large bull ant. Thankfully it seemed to be alone. The memory of having been bitten several times by some that had gotten into my fishing waders had never faded, despite the many years that had passed! I kept a close eye out for where it went, so not to hurt or upset it. It was heading up the post on the far side from me. Still, I got a sense it was keeping an eye on me as well. I was careful not to disturb what now looked like potentially a large nest any further and moved away gradually as I kept weeding and glancing at the whereabouts of the ant.

I saw it reached the flat top of the post and found itself a nice perch. Front legs over the edge at first, looking at my every move with careful suspicion.

There was something majestic about her as she observed me from her high throne. It may be a bit strange, but I felt like I owed her an apology for disturbing the soil in which she had made her home. I promised to take care and not upset her further, now I was aware of her presence. She seemed to relax a bit and I got the sense that she stayed up there out of mutual respect, to not get in my way. I do not think she was afraid, looking at her ‘royal like’ body language, just cautious not to get in harms way.

And just like that, I felt like writing again to share my mundane adventure that left a strong impression on me today. I am so glad I have learned to be at ease with perceived dangers in nature. When fully present in the moment they become more like magical encounters than a threat!

Copyright: PollyEsther 2023