Becoming a Beekeeper

I'm often asked: "How did you get into beekeeping?"

And my immediate response is, "Well, I love honey." Which is true! I have always enjoyed to multilayered sweetness of honey that drips straight from the honeycomb. In fact, I vividly remember an experience I had while visiting Israel. We were greeted each morning with a delicious buffet of Mediterranean food. But one particular morning, I saw beautiful display of honeycomb in the center of the buffet. I assumed this masterpiece was there for decoration, until I witnessed someone take a knife and carve a small piece and put it on their plate. Curious, I followed their example and did the same. I sat down and went straight for the delicious delicacy, and let me just say, it was an experience of flavor I will never forget. I instantly understood why David said:

“(God's Word) is more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold; Sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb.” (Psalm 19:10, NASB95)

So yes, I love honey, but its more than that. Because I also love nature. I love plants and trees. In fact, my first major in college was landscape architecture. It's why I love backpacking and outdoor adventure. Because being in nature is where I feel most connected to God. I love learning about creation because it always teaches me something our Creator. And once again the Bible confirms this truth.

“But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you. Which of all these does not know that the hand of the LORD has done this? In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.” (Job 12:7–10, NIV)

So maybe I got into beekeeping because it draws my heart toward God.
Which sounds very noble. But the truth is, beekeeping has often challenged my faith. Because no matter how much I learn, I often encounter something with my bees I didn't expect. I often feel inadequate to do the job well as I walk the balance between helping and hindering the nature's most important pollinators. And yes, I actually pray for my hives. I ask God to help me give them good care. Because I want to honor Him by caring for what He created.

So why did I get into beekeeping? Maybe it began with a curious interest. But it is something that has become a passionate pursuit. It's a journey I'm excited to share with you! I hope you will follow along at Shepherdshoney.com