Tuesday, September 16, 2014

If nothing ever changed...

Kim

"The butterflies attractiveness derives not only from colors and
symmetry; deeper motives contribute to it. We would not think
them so beautiful if they did not fly, or if they flew straight and
briskly like bees, or if they stung, or above all if they did not enact
the perturbing mystery of metamorphosis: the latter assumes in our
eyes the value of a decoded message, a symbol, a sign.
-Primo Levi


From my front porch there have been lessons in nature . . . about the circle of life.

about sorrow,

and about happiness.




and about how if we are to have room to really grow in this life,




to become more aware,

and to be more compassionate,




and to find the meaning of true joy,

then we can't fight change.



Because . . . 





This particular butterfly had some technical difficulties. He was supposed to be inside of that silk thread harness like a sling, not hanging (second image.) His ability to adapt to this change may have meant the difference between becoming a butterfly or not. I often wonder what change I've fought too hard that has prevented me from moving in the right direction.

Thankfully I have been able to decode a few of those messages from my front porch (only a million more to go.)  And my heart is full of gratitude for the nearly 1000 caterpillars that have come in to my garden and left as butterflies, as they have been a great source of healing through some difficult times. 

And it's kinda funny, 'cause that circle of life, when we don't fight change, becomes a give and take. A receiving and a giving away of all that is good even in adversity.

Yes, change is so hard because it takes me out of my comfort zone and into uncharted territory. But, from my garden change is not only growth, I get to witness evidence of life.

#tryingtoembracechange




13 comments:

heyjudephotography said...

Wise and beautiful words Kim.

CarolHart said...

Lovely post and a timely reminder for me today. Thank you

terriporter said...

Ah, change . . . so hard sometimes but so inevitable. I fight it because I don't like change, but when I allow it to happen, it can be very good. Thank you for this lovely message, one I'm sure many of us can take to heart. And your photos, as always, stunning!

Sandra said...

What wonderful images of the metamorphosis from caterpillar to glorious butterfly.

kelly said...

whenever I see one of your butterfly shots I can only imagine how it would be to see this miracle happen first hand. but I guess in a way, I have been able to witness a similar kind of transformation in my own life. I am so bad at change...but thank goodness it happens whether I like it or not.

Cathy H. said...

Beautiful post and gorgeous images! Your butterfly images always leave me breathless!

Adrienne said...

Yes. I love that you host these beauties and love learning with you as you allow your heart to be changed by what you observe. These last few months, I have been struck by the fact that the natural world is ever changing. On the same path I find some fading blooms right next to new buds. Or vibrant green next to the fading red/brown of early autumn. It has helped me desire to BE somewhere instead of always trying to GET somewhere. Thanks for this lovely post!

Anonymous said...

Its amazing how a caterpillars life cycle seems so simple and uncomplicated. You watch them grow and change… they emerge for a second time in life a beautiful captivating species! Though some struggle, some become the food chain and then some are given a little better chance at life, from beautiful souls like yourself! Kim, I have learned so much watching your videos, seeing your breathtaking photos and always excited to hear and see more. Thank you for sharing such beautiful blessings and keep up the good work…your awesome!

Kim Cunningham said...

Yes, friend! I love the example of the butterfly. What looks like chains can often be the thing that gives us wings. You are amazing!

Inspired By June said...

I'm so thankful you had this summer's experiences, Kim. And feeling so blessed that you're sharing pieces with us. Thank you.

Linda said...

I love this Kim! It is so true about the lessons I have learned by caring for these little creatures. What started out as a summer activity for my grand daughters has really shown me a lot about myself and life. The girls are still fascinated by the caterpillars and their metatmorphasis, and I have to say, so am I.

Deanna said...

What a beautiful post, Kim. Change is so difficult sometimes, but you are so blessed to be able to help give life to these "changing" beauties.

Roxi H said...

I love these guys. They hang out in my dill. But I have yet to spot a cocoon. Only caterpillars and butterflies.

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