Imagine leaving your house to go for an afternoon walk and then not reappearing until 14 or 17 years later! I am so excited the Cicadas are returning---one wonders what goes through their mind. I know the experts say they all die off within weeks of returning but I like to think a few hardy ones survive just to reappear later! You may think I am nuts---and you would be right but I embrace my degraded mental state---as most positive people do! Just ---I Therese this discussion topic wouldn't have arisen! Lets just say this life-cycle would be the same for humans---how would you spend your time ? Would humans be missed during their absence (I I know my car would last much longer than past ones!) When in the warm embrace of another, for me, "time stands still." Even though the thought of an extended (I.e. cuddling session is appealing). I would be afraid of missing the event by falling asleep. Conversely if you can fall asleep in the arms of a stranger---that person possesses a beautiful gift! So what my point---1) take the time to appreciate what you have,and the world around, 2) don't judge other without critical judging yourself first, 3) and if you see a Cicda and become friends, hug them as they may not be around for long and do not have the services cuddle comfort to rely on!