Preparing for a proper butterfly flight

At the start of each dance class, we form in a circle of yoga mats. Prior to stretching for thirty minutes, we are asked a question, usually casual in nature that serves as an icebreaker and community builder. It is a pleasant way to learn about each other, because during class we are focused on learning and practicing challenging moves, leaving little time for conversation.

During a special class that took place a few weeks ago, just before the new year, we were asked to share our “word for the year.” Fun, I thought, having once asked the same of my students, seniors embarking on their final year of high school. When it was my turn to answer the question in dance class, I said the first thing that came to mind: “transformation” which I’ve experienced on many levels over the past five years. None of it easy, as transformation (life) goes, but rewarding, revealing, and ongoing.

My response felt ok, but not quite right. At the end of the class, which involved a series of graceful movements and intentional writing and releasing with a fire burning, we revisited our “word for the year” question and were asked if we had a change of heart with our first choice. I did and I was glad to revisit the question.

Butterfly was my second response, surprising myself with its sweet simplicity, almost childlike. The question also had a “why” component. I chose butterfly as my word for the year, because they are both strong and delicate and they have an incredible ability to travel long distances alone, soldiering on through all kinds of weather, knowing when to protect their fragile wings when storms might threaten their ability to fly, and of course, they must transform in a cocoon before any of their feats are possible.

What I had not considered until writing this essay is that I used to collect butterfly things when I was a child, so I suppose the “childlike” tone is perfect.

After spending some time reading and replying this afternoon, I will be stepping away from WP for a few days, with a goal of returning Saturday, February 1st. I need to rest for all the romance I will be writing next month. Teasing! I need to hyperfocus on some tasky technical work. A challenge for me at this stage of my (mid)life when I’d rather be twirling and writing about butterflies. Take care and thank you for reading and connecting here. I treasure my creative friends in this space! Michele

If you missed my Saturday post, “Doyle’s beautiful book inspires a garden visit,” featuring author and blogger Mary Doyle’s poetry and photography collection, please give the share a visit. I know she would be most grateful and me too!

my butterfly photos, taken in 2020 (first time shared-today) / cell phone window selfie [image error]

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