Be

To the left of the back door onto the patio is a black widow’s residence. She builds her web every night.

To the left of the back door, leaning against the wall on the patio, is our broom. Every morning, I take the broom and knock down the black widow’s web.

Last night, I went out to call a cat. Turning on the light, I saw the black widow feasting on an insect in her web.

I thought about knocking the web down, but I reconsidered. Who am I to insert myself into this process that is the foundation of nature?

I fear the black widow and her bite. I doubt she thinks about me. Regardless, this is part of our life cycle. I can’t let fear of her direct my actions. No, I’m not comfortable with it, but should my comfort decide my actions?

I let her web be.