Mosquitoes. 

Instantly by just reading the word many of you are likely irritated, irked, or irreconcilable at the thought of this summer-time plague. While Celine, Isaiah, and I were not walking around the scenes of Jasper, we spent it at our campsite. Overall the campsite was adequate with a flat surface for our tents, a table, and even some tree cover. What they can't show in the pictures promoting any outdoor space is the types of critters that are close in proximity. We were faced with the task of incessantly swatting away the bloodthirsty insect with each jaunt between the parking lot and the shelter of our tents. Although we were rightfully provoked by these miniature flying vampires, I attempted to reflect on what it means to care for all creation; even the aspects we find loathsome. 

It's probably advantageous that I write about this during the winter where the memories of splattering combat may be faded. Additionally, there may be some who are perturbed by how these insects and many other pests can be looked upon fondly with any lens. My hope is not for you to love mosquitoes but to look upon them, and all other frustrating aspects in nature, compassionately (it's at this point I suspect many to either roll your eyes or move on to the photo section). I will avoid bringing in my theological point of view because I believe people much more intelligent and eloquent have already written on the matter. I am specifically thinking of Richard Bauckham in his book, "Living with Other Creatures: Green Exegesis and Theology," where he explores the depths of Christian ecological thought.

On a personal level, I am more inclined to appreciate mosquitoes when I place them in the context of their integral role in an ecosystem. Without mosquitoes, an abundantly accessible food source for dragonflies, bats, fish, frogs, spiders, and birds would not be present, which would then lead to additional pressure on other species. The increased pressure on other species could lead to further loss in biodiversity or the collapse of an entire ecosystem. It's through this cascading of events where I realize that without even one member, the places I find solace could become unhealthy and eventually disappear. 

When we put the despised into their environmental and historical context, it becomes easier to take on a sympathetic view, rather than one of combativeness. Only be after journeying through a perspective shift toward benevolence for the seemingly insignificant, like the notoriously vexatious mosquito, will we have the ability to extend compassion to other beings in our life. 

The images below are from Jasper National Park.