I used to be frightened
of wasps and bees
before I understood
the vital part they played
in creating both beauty and food.
Now, as I willingly approach one,
admiring its bright yellow stripes
and gossamer wings,
I move ever closer
to get a better look
at this fragile
little link
in the chain of life.
Poem & Photo by Joan Kantor
Joan Kantor’s work took first place for poetry in The Hackney Literary Awards Contest (2013) as well as The 23rd Writer’s Digest Self Published Book Awards Contest. Her work has also been published in numerous literary journals. She participates in readings and also performs in Stringing Words Together, a poetry and violin duo.