August considers Lily a true beekeeper because she experiences the quintessential beekeeping initiation: getting stung.
The Unspoken Requirement of the Craft
For August Boatwright, encountering a bee's sting is not merely an occupational hazard but a crucial milestone that signifies genuine engagement and understanding of the beekeeping world. This belief is rooted in the understanding that to truly work with bees, one must accept all aspects of their nature, including their defenses.
Lily earns this validation from August after she is stung while performing a fundamental beekeeping task—replacing a lid on a hive box. August tells Lily directly that she could not be considered a true beekeeper without having endured such an experience. In August's wisdom, a person cannot fully grasp the essence of beekeeping without having this direct, physical interaction. This experience elevates Lily beyond a mere observer or assistant, marking her as someone who has truly committed to and become part of the beekeeping life. Lily herself feels a profound sense of accomplishment and pride, recognizing that August's words confirm her acceptance and growth into this new identity.
