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Rebirth & Metamorphisis

In Irish legend, the butterfly symbolizes rebirth and metamorphisis. 

“When she transformed into a butterfly, the caterpillars spoke not of her beauty, but of her weirdness. They wanted her to change back into what she always had been. But she had wings.” - Dean Jackson

I use the metaphor of the butterfly and transformation quite often. It is one that resonates a lot with me because while it is possible to move through life as a caterpillar, and one may feel fulfilled doing so in many ways, that transformation from the first moment the wings stretch is such a sight of joy, how can you not?

I really do see transition that way. I had to transition, not because I wanted to be a butterfly, but because I was a butterfly. There could be no other way if I was to be whole. 

I am again reminded of this poem by Sabina Laura:

We all need
some measure of comfort
the safety of a cocoon

But I remind myself
that change is good,
that I cannot spend
my whole life
being a caterpillar

That courage
wears butterfly wings
and the sky has never looked
more inviting.


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