The Wisdom of "Invasive Species"

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On a recent trip to Cleveland, Ohio to visit a dear friend, I had the opportunity to sit on a deck and bask in the setting sun. During this period of relaxation, I noticed a sizeable insect. It was far enough away and in such a light that I was unable to see the detail of its body. But, the manner in which it moved was endearing, as if every step was intentional like a baby or toddler who just learned to walk pretty steadily and had such pride. It was a small detail in nature that warmed me and brought a smile to my face. 

Relaxation moved me to nap land. When I woke up I found this insect sitting beside me. It was beautiful - a work of nature’s art. And it turned out to be a spotted lanternfly. I had never seen one, but I had seen an article just the day before that indicated they are an invasive pest that should be reported and killed as they threaten trees and certain crops. As an herbalist, I know well that there are many “invasive” species of plants that are in fact deeply healing and medicinal. For example, Japanese Knotweed. It is an essential medicine for those with chronic Lyme disease. Is it a coincidence that a plant shows up en masse when the sickness created from tic-borne illness is rampant? No. “Invasive species” can be here to help us if we only stop to consider the possibility. 

Back to the spotted lanternfly. I swatted it, stunned it, then killed it. I reported it like a good human who heard the call and followed marching orders. Afterward, I felt this odd feeling of emptiness and kept looking over at the creature I just vanquished. I have had a tough time letting go of killing this creature that is likely showing up in droves for a reason I cannot begin to understand. What if it is here in fact to offer a medicine to our ailing planet or to the spirit of humanity?

While I can offer myself grace, it is in my nature to reflect and try to understand. 

Why did I not pause to admire it? 

Why did I not try to understand its presence?

Why did I not try to journey with it? Communicate with it? 

As a person who tends to save ants, spiders and other critters that enter my home, what happened at that moment? 

I was temporarily blinded. 

I was human and let my deepest knowing take a back seat. 

Because of fear. 

Because of a story about an "invasive species" I created out of the fear. 

Out of one article. 

And so, I am reminded of the pause. 

The pause before taking action. 

I am reminded of my soul’s desire and need for curiosity. 

My deepest belief is that we are nature and nature is us. The web of life is not a mental construct; it is an essential truth. Every life has value no matter its size. Every life, action, word, and thought either strengthens or serves to tear this magnificent web. It is our responsibility to wake up to that truth and engage in meaningful change within ourselves to heal the ties that bind - to knit together the tears in the web. 

So, this inspires some questions for you to ponder.

Where in your life are you responding to fear?

Where do you need to, with grace, take responsibility for potentially destructive actions you have taken out of fear?

What is the source of that fear? 

Is there another possible explanation?

Where in your life could you benefit from pausing and embracing curiosity? 

I wish you gentleness and great self-love as you explore your own answers to these questions. 

Love to you, brothers and sisters.