Saturday, February 2, 2013

An Ode to the Queen, or quite simply: Mom

There are many events in our lives that we can't avoid.  For our bees, it's the death of their queen.

For my family it was the death of my mother on 15 Jan 2013.

I've been reflecting a lot the last few weeks on moms, motherhood, parenting, and nurturing.

Sacrifice comes to mind too.

When doing talks or presentations on bees I like to let people know, especially moms, that bees aren't too much different than they are.  My main point is the sacrifice that the queen makes for the future of her offspring.

When it comes time to swarm, the old, mature but experienced queen leaves the hive.  She flies out into the unknown and unsafe world to seek a new home.  It's dangerous and it could mean her death or the failure of the swarm to reproduce.

The queen takes this risk so that she can leave the safety and comfort of the established hive to her inexperienced daughter who will soon hatch and be that hive's new queen.

When I talk about this I notice many women's eyes will well up.  They understand the reason why the queen does this.  She'll do whatever it takes to ensure the success of her offspring.

I'd like to thank all the moms and queens out there that have sacrificed their peace and comfort for their children.

4 comments:

ΑΝΤΩΝΗΣ said...

ΣΥΛΛΥΠΗΤΉΡΙΑ ΓΙΑ ΤΗ ΜΗΤΈΡΑ ΣΑΣ

İlhami Uyar said...

I send condolences wishes for your mother,Hopefully she will enter paradise,I wish patiance all family members

Mary A. Esparza said...

Mother is the most closest friend than any other people in the world. She takes care of us from the beginning of our life to until death of mother. A son realizes feeling of mothers care, love, concern after the death of mother.:(
I am sympathizing you & wish patience all family members.

WesternWilson said...

Ah Barbara, any mom would be so touched and proud to have a daughter who remembers them so lovingly. I am sorry for your loss, pet, but so happy for you that you had such a great mom. Well written, I am tearing up badly! Bless you my dear.