This photograph is part of a portrait series of sleeping bees called 'Sleeping Beauties'. When I saw my first bee asleep, a sense of peace washed over me. It made finding stillness with my macro lens a nose-length away feel almost effortless. Each bee in their sleep was unique. This golden-green sweat bee is in a deep sleep at dawn with its face tucked into a butterfly weed floret. Given the energy they use all day hauling load after load of pollen beads, it’s not surprising how deeply they can sleep. This photo transcends my initial intention of documenting insect characteristics and behaviors. It also serves as a mirror for self-reflection. Observing bees in the vulnerable state of sleep magnifies their fragility in our presence and reinforces my sense of responsibility to nurture our symbiotic relationship with them. And it reminds me to be more mindful with the small stuff in my daily life, literally and metaphorically.