Yellow garden spider - photo by Jill Spencer
Researchers, supported by the National Science Foundation, have been studying the glue-like substance produced by orb-weaving spiders that make their webs sticky. The gummy material was found to be composed of entangled polymers, giving it a consistency that was both viscous and elastic. The substance is also water resistant; however, without humid conditions, it begins to lose its stickiness. Spiders apply drops to only the spiral threads of their web, leaving the spoke threads free of it. Orb-weavers have a nonstick coating on their legs that repels the polymers. When moving across the web, the spider touches it delicately, gripping the threads with a layer of hairs and claws on its feet. These weavers have evolved traits that keep them from becoming stuck in their own sticky trap.
When it comes to giving freely - whether of time, attention or material resources - things can get sticky for most people. Jan Chozen Bays explained that although generosity lies within each of us, "it has been obscured by the inevitable wounds, duties, and worries of our busy lives." We may be self-absorbed with our own challenges, think we have nothing worthwhile to offer or fear to let go of what we have. Yet even a small, generous act can help reduce our fear and clinging. It allows us to remember our interconnection with the rest of the world. But perhaps the greatest consequence of generosity is that it helps us accept change. Our personal ability to let go will support us in adapting to the natural ebb and flow inherent in life.
For more information on generosity, see this post.
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