That Stings!

Photo by Pixabay: @ www.pexels.com

A Walk to Remember… and a Lesson from the Bees

Recently, I was enjoying a beautiful walk along the cliffs and rocky terrain by the Atlantic Ocean in Bay Roberts, Newfoundland. My daughter and I were soaking in the cool evening air, the ocean breeze, and our lively conversation. It was absolutely breathtaking. Life felt good, and we were truly savoring the moment.

Then, out of nowhere, much to Shannon's shock and my horror, I was suddenly stung, over and over, by a swarm of bees. To this day, I have no idea where they came from. Maybe, in my blissful ignorance, I stepped on a hive without realizing it? One never knows.

Screaming at the top of my lungs, I started swatting at the angry black-and-yellow invaders and ran for my life. I had never experienced anything like it, and wow, it hurt. The attack was so sudden, it completely shattered the peaceful vibe of our walk and left me totally shaken and unprepared.

Back at the cabin, we went on a mission for ice, Benadryl, and a whole lot of sympathy. I was definitely feeling sorry for myself, and honestly, I think I deserved it!

​But here’s the thing: as unpleasant as it was, I couldn’t let the experience go to waste. There had to be a lesson in all of this.

Photo by Photo By: Kaboompics.com

Life is unpredictable

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that life is wildly unpredictable. Just like my fiasco with the bees, everything can seem to be going smoothly, and then, out of nowhere, life stings us. It shows up in all kinds of forms: unemployment, illness, grief, loss, depression, financial struggles. And just like those bees, it can leave us feeling gobsmacked, bewildered, battered, and swollen from the sting of hardship or heartbreak.

There have been so many moments in my life when I’ve looked at what I was handed and thought, “I didn’t order this. I don’t want this. I never imagined THIS would be part of my story. Are you kidding me?” Some of the paths I’ve walked, I wouldn’t wish on anyone.

Through it all, God is there

Despite the highs and lows, one thing I hold onto is the assurance that I’m never alone. I have a relationship with Jesus, and He walks with me through it all. No matter what life throws my way, I know there’s nothing He and I can’t face together. That truth is deeply reassuring, and it’s what sustains me during the hardest times.

Better days are coming

Photo by Little Lessons Learned by Dana

Tough times don’t last forever, and even through the stings, there’s still so much sweetness in life. Just like the delicious honey that bees give us, there’s beauty and goodness waiting to be found, even after the pain.

Wherever you are right now, my friend, whether you're feeling the sting or savoring the sweetness, know that life is a mix of both. Stings happen to all of us (hopefully not seven at once like my bee incident!), but you have what it takes to get through it. You’re stronger than you know, and it’s often through the hardest moments that the most growth happens.

​So stay the course. You’re not alone. We’re all in this together, and with God by our side, we can withstand anything life throws our way. 

​Tuck that in your heart today ❤️ and repeat this prayer below if you would like to become a follower of Jesus:

Dear Jesus,
I admit that I am a sinner. I believe that You are God and are able to forgive me of my sins. I ask You to forgive me of my sins and become my personal Savior. Come into my heart and change me into the person I am meant to be. Help me to live for You from this day forward. Thank You for coming into my life and thank You for loving me as I am.

In Jesus's name,
Amen

Sending you a virtual hug,

​Dana
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Copyright: 2025 littlelessonslearnedbydana (Dana Romualdi) ​

Tags: hardships, strength from God, life's ups and downs, bees, honey, life lessons

Author

Dana Romualdi is a Canadian elementary teacher, blogger, author, and speaker. She wholeheartedly desires to "love God and love people." With a passion for helping others and spreading much-needed encouragement, Dana makes a positive impact wherever she goes. She lives in Canada with her husband and two grown children. ​