World Bee Day
“Traversing the fields,
a bee gathers the ingredients for honey.
Traversing the ages,
the soul infuses sweetness into the mind.
The stars are hidden when the sun rises,
and thoughts vanish when
the intellect returns to its own realm.
Raindrops moisten the furrows,
just as tear-laden sighs,
rising from the heart,
soften the soul’s state during prayer.
Simply speaking of the laws of nature
arouses deep admiration.
But when they are fully understood,
they are like fields full of flowers,
whose lavish blossoms give out
a spiritual sweetness like nectar from heaven.
Bees surround their queen
among fresh meadow-flowers.
And angelic powers surround and assist
a soul that is constantly in a
state of loving concentration,
for the soul is kindred to them.”
Ilias the Presbyter (11th century Turkey)
King Edward Street Chapel 