Vol. 16 No. 41 | October 14, 2013
We have had a problem with ants. They keep coming back. When pest control service people came for the regularly scheduled application we mentioned that we had seen several ants around our kitchen sink and on the cabinets in that area. They spayed and said, “Call us if you see any more ants.”
We saw more more ants. We called. They suggested, “Try vinegar and water and if you still see ants call us.” We tried vinegar and water. We continued to see ants.
We called. The technician returned and used a different chemical. “That should take care of them, but if you see any more call us.”
We continued to see more, and more, and more. We called again. A new “Bug Man” came armed to wage war against the ants. When he walked in the door he exuded confidence and seemed excited about the battle. He began by catching one ant, smashing it between his thumb and forefinger and sniffing it to determine “the type of ant we are dealing with.” With great enthusiasm he explained that each ant gives off a special scent. Although he told me, I do not remember the type “we are dealing with.” He then proceeded to explain his technique for killing the ants, the chemical he was using, and how it worked. He shared that the ants hunt for food, then communicate with one another when they discover food.
After applying the new dose he began to watch and share how they “are taking the bait” and insisted that I come see a particular group that had swarmed and congregated just above the dishwasher. I am pretty sure he let out a “Yessir!” at
this point.
I thanked him for his determination and knowledge. He thanked me for our business, once again explained the nature of the ant, explained what he had done and how it works, and assured me that “This should take care of the problem.”
As he walked to his truck I was reminded of the lesson, not a new lesson, but an old and familiar lesson: We have all been created by God and none of us are exactly the same.
The first verse of the Bible that introduces the creation story in Genesis 1:1 says, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” As the story unfolds we see the detail and the uniqueness of every creature that God created. He created us all and He created us all exactly like He wanted us to be. Ants, humans, dogs and beautiful trees covered in the brilliant colors of autumn.
Thank you Larry, the Bug Man, for letting me watch you and listen to you and once again be reminded of what a good thing it is that God created us all to be different. No wonder when God finished His creation He said, “This is good.”
Tom
© Copyright 2013 Tom Norvell. All rights reserved.