SHOOT FROM THE HIP

With the holiday weekend upon us, I find myself thinking about fireworks, BBQs… and ants. These tiny creatures can wreck havoc on an otherwise joyous gathering. I’ve been known to kill them on sight. Evolutionary biologist Olivia Judson has made me rethink my abhorrence of the critters. In her opinion piece for The New York Times, she makes a very heart-warming case for these abundant insects. She also points out that, amongst all the chatter in the world, there’s a lot that we’re not hearing. 

Check out the entire article, “Operator? Can You Put Me Through to Ant Nest 251?”

I love this lesson from the animal kingdom! After all, while my concern for how one nest of ants talks to another may be at an all time low, I am continually striving to identify the most effective way we humans can communicate. 

So, on this 4th of July weekend, I will honor the ants. How? Well, I’ll try not to kill any. And I’ll remember that big explosions and flashy spectacles, while fun, are not nearly as meaningful as those unexpected conversations struck up with new friends by the fire pit.

Happy Independence Day!