lessons – Heather Holleman

3 Lessons from a Magnificent (But Terrifying) Spider

Today I meet a cross orbweaver spider.

Cross Orbweaver Spider

In the cooler weather, I know these spiders find warmth inside my house. Spiders terrify me, but I want to give her a chance. One can’t destroy another just because of fear, just because of misunderstanding.

Orbweaver Spider in the Woods

I learn that this spider rarely bites. In fact, it’s supremely difficult to provoke her. Inside a home, she’ll eat dust mites, fruit flies, and various pests. Her webs help clean the house.

I also learn that she eats her web every single night and builds a fresh one every single morning. She keeps her web free of debris by starting over every single day.

I love that she starts fresh each morning, removing debris from the day before. I love that she stays calm and unprovoked. I love that she’s helpful.

I want to be more like her. Welcome, little spider.

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Do you encounter unusual spiders in your home this time of year?

Lesson from Neighborhood Boy in 100 Words

We can’t find the mountain trail for our evening hike.

Some kids pass by. One calls out: “You looking for something?” We describe the trail. He nods. “Follow me. I can show you.”

He delivers us to our destination. He mentions different paths to avoid and various landmarks to spot. Then he returns to his friends. He didn’t have to help. There was no reward for him. He was just helpful.

The boy had flair. Would I have done that for somebody?

I thought about who might be lost and needs me to say, “Follow me. I can show you.”