Photo quote de jour


Butterflies are the universal symbol of transformation and this summer, they are one of my teachers. In one short month, they transform from small eggs to caterpillars, then back into a cocoon or chrysalis and finally a winged butterfly. Seeing their effortless dance always fills me with joy. I believe all animal sightings bring a lesson and unique wisdom in that moment. Butterfly's gift is about effortless change, joy and creativity. They are the ultimate metaphor and symbol for the soul. Different butterflies flitted in and out of my garden this summer bringing their usual moment of wonder, but in the past week the yellow swallowtails arrived in my secret garden with a clear message. The secret garden is located behind our old barn. It's wild and overgrown and private enough to dance naked in if so inclined. The butterflies danced in full glory, circling around me in a to and fro dance and I fell under their spell. They perched on succulent blossoms and drank deep with their straw-like tongues and allowed me to examine them up close. Close enough to kiss.

They posed for photographs and in their magical presence I asked for their message. This is what they said: Keep moving forward, don't hang on to outgrown habits. Butterflies don't miss being caterpillars. Every stage of growth is necessary and we keep cycling through the four stages 1) the egg or conceptual beginning. 2) caterpillar or outward but limited movement, growth and change. 3) cocoon or inward creative process and gestation. 4) Butterfly or integration of inner and outer growth and transformation. You can not fast forward or rush any stage but if you don't trust the process, you can get stuck in any of the four stages. Identify which stage you're in right now. Sometimes the cocoon stage may feel too long, but it's always just long enough. Your wings may be wet and sticky at first but they know how to fly, let them. It's time for your...