One day,
My children and I discovered something in our garden,
A handful of very hungry caterpillars.
Knowing how vulnerable these tiny creatures were,
We decided to take them in and look after them.
In the weeks that followed,
We witnessed a miraculous transformation.
Their bodies doubled in size seemingly overnight,
And then suddenly their fervent little activity slowed until they became very still.
We noticed one day a shift into total stillness.
A transformative change was happening.
We watched them turn seemingly to stone,
And waited.
In life,
During periods when we feel like little progress is being made,
Where we feel as inactive as a caterpillar in a cocoon,
Perhaps we can trust that a greater transformation is happening within.
We can trust a good work that's going on deep within us,
And just like this caterpillar,
Know that we have within us a beautiful butterfly waiting to be reborn.
Take the next few minutes to reflect on those stages of a life cycle,
And imagine yourself as a creature on a journey of transformation.
You may wish to spend some time journaling your thoughts.
If so,
Pause this recording to find something to write on and with.
Here are six helpful journal prompts.
You are welcome to pause this recording after each and spend time writing down your response.
Number one.
What nourishes you in life?
What activities help you grow?
Number two.
Are there activities that may be hindering your growth?
Number three.
What people or places form a cocoon of safety around you?
Number four.
What are the values that serve as your north star,
That offer you clarity on what matters most to you and points you in a good direction?
Number five.
What new directions do you sense yourself stepping into?
Number six.
Who do you see yourself becoming as you metaphorically emerge from your cocoon?
As you close,
Spend a moment visualizing yourself as a caterpillar turning into a butterfly,
Reminding yourself that you have the capacity to change and to grow.
Remember,
You are evolving,
Becoming,
Transforming.
I wish you all the best on your journey of growth.
Take care,
My friend.
