Begone Bugs

It’s July, and black flies abound in the streams and mountains of New Hampshire where my family and I like to hike and camp.  But woe to us when we run out of bug spray, and the crazed flies cloud our faces where they swarm with blood-seeking purpose. 

Hey, flies gotta eat, and we all understand, but find some other victim, please!  Not a convincing request for flies parking on spray-less skin and perfumed cheeks.  

Some have said that north-woods’ escapades during fly season can drive one insane.  I believe it.   Ever see “Naked and Afraid?”   Peace be with them!  Hardly.

Many things in our lives tend to drive us “insane.”  Problems abound, and we often struggle to overcome overwhelming odds against our best interests, perhaps serious health concerns – physical or mental.  These problems and difficulties can be like swarms of flies bleeding us dry and wearing us down.   What are we to do when no spray will keep us safe and sound?

This is one reason why we pray.  Prayer can act as a bug head-net helping us keep our eyes clear and find our way out of darkness and despair.  Our Church is our tent into which we can retreat to find solace, as well as help.

Our faith is the wind that blows away the bugs and keeps us sane.   Thanks be to God - and bug spray!

Deacon David Pierce