You might be wondering right about now, why I’m making post about butterflies.
After all, this blog is about my life with Dissociation, Anxiety, and PTSD as a survivor of childhood sexual abuse and narcissistic abuse.
So how do butterflies fit in ’round here? Well, these beautiful, delicate creatures are a symbol of transformation. As survivors we are trying to transform our lives from the abuse and trauma we suffered, into something new.
A life of promise and the ability to look forward to each day with positive anticipation of how we can thrive, encourage, and support others as well as ourselves.
…cultural myth and lore honor the butterfly as a symbol of transformation because of its impressive process of metamorphosis…(source symbolic butterfly meanings).
Recently I discovered that right in my own back yard, relatively speaking, there is a Butterfly Atrium, where you can go and walk among some of the most beautiful butterflies on earth.
Self Care can take on countless forms; anything that brings us peace, enjoyment, and contentment is good for soul. When we take some time to slow down, relax, and do things that make us feel good, it’s a huge step forward in our recovery journey.
What better way to do that than to take in the sweet, innocent beauty of an amazing creatures, and spend some time with them, up close.
I work in an office, with all guys, and when I mentioned in passing that I was planning on checking out the butterfly atrium this weekend, the response was typical. “Why don’t you just hand over your man card now”. “Awe isn’t that sweet, you and the butterflies”.
I knew these types of remarks were coming, but I didn’t care. This was something I wanted to do, and a new experience that I can look back on fondly.
If going and hanging out with butterflies invalidates my man card, than just take it because I don’t need it.
I say.. guy or gal, get out there and enjoy a simple pleasure like spending time in nature. Watch the butterflies, take a deep breathe and enjoy simple things in life that just make you feel good.
I had a great time, and I hope you will enjoy the video and share it. I highly recommend that if you are ever in the Central PA area, go check it along with Hershey Gardens. I spent some time there as well and it was as peaceful, beautiful, and relaxing as being among the butterflies.
-Matt
Check out the gallery of the butterfly pics and also the video below that also includes pics from the gardens.
Good for you for taking care of yourself this way, Matt! Nowadays I cherish my quiet time in nature in a way I once could not fathom. There was a time when I was so numb and dead inside that I just didn’t get it. Couldn’t feel the awe that others expressed at natural beauty. I am so grateful that now, awe and wonder at nature and the abundance of life are regular experiences for me. So grateful for my healing. Thanks for this important reminder. Growth and healing is real!