The things that bug us can drive us crazy. They annoy us, make us angry, lead to shouting, swatting, and even killing. However, if we really take a look at them and consider their role in our lives, we will see that they are actually quite beautiful and relevant to our existence.

One thing that has really caught my attention during my many hiking trips over the past few months are insects and other tiny beautiful “bug like” creatures. As I observed them, I was able to take many pictures, and reflect upon their existence and how important they are.

Many of these creatures are quite beautiful. Butterflies for example are some of the prettiest insects.

Even tiny bugs and beetles can possess a certain level of beauty that attracts our attention

Typically, when we think of creatures like this our thoughts aren’t good. We think of gnats, flies, mosquitos, ticks, ants, slugs, worms and other such creatures as pests. We can’t stand them; they drive us crazy. In some cases, they create fear in us. We fear the pain from a potential bee or wasp sting, or infections and viruses caused by the spreading of germs carried by such creatures and do everything in our power to get rid of them.

However, we need to remember how important such creatures are to our existence. They play a critical role in the maintenance and functioning of the world in which we live. They help feed us. Through the pollination of plants by various insects we have fruits and vegetables. Also, they help create and maintain the beauty around us by pollinating flowers and helping with the decomposing of dead plants and animals. In addition, some help protect us by controlling the population of other such creatures who may be harmful to us.

When it comes to living our daily lives it is no different. There are people, things, and situations that bug us. Sometimes their “bugging” is what we need, they are really trying to help us. They are there to provide us knowledge and understanding of the world in which we live. To help us fight off the “bad bugs”; the people, things, and situations that are having a negative impact on our lives.

When it comes to the bad bugs, while we should not want them, we need them also. They are there for a reason. They are there to test our understanding of what is right and what is wrong, to challenge our ability to make correct decisions and hopefully, through their presence, we will choose to protect ourselves by eliminating them from our lives.

In the end, the things that bug us may be the most important things in our lives. Whether it be actual insects and other tiny beautiful creatures or the challenges we face.  Regardless, both have the power to enhance the joy, happiness, and beauty around us.