Butterfly Release
A recent sermon at our church (Jordan UCC, Allentown) shared the concept of letting go of past events that constrain us and embracing new options for the future. To illustrate this concept, Doctor David Smith spoke of butterflies. They go from being confined in a cocoon to flying free. Further demonstration was provided for each person in the form of a living butterfly, which we all set free.
You may be wondering how roughly 150 people would have access to this many butterflies. Some preparation was obviously needed. There is an individual near Nescopeck, PA, who provides butterflies in specially designed packaging, ready for release. My wife, Alenda, drove there on Saturday to pick them up, getting lost for only a short time. She was instructed to keep them in a cool place overnight. After the service on Sunday morning, each person received the small package and was invited to step out on the grass and release the butterfly from within.
It was interesting to look around and observe the different behavior of the butterflies. Some immediately spread their wings and took flight. Others seemed more hesitant. When I opened my container, I saw the little creature unfold its wings, and I expected to see it launch itself into the air. Instead, it simply sat and then moved its wings back to a side-by-side position above its back. And then it sat some more. And some more.
I began to wonder if the wings were somehow stuck together. I have never been good at simply waiting, and I began to ponder if I needed to help it unstick its wings. As I watched and pondered, I noticed details I had never seen on butterflies, such as small hairlike material between its body and its wings. I considered how perfectly symmetrical God had created it. I further reflected this this little creature was only a tiny, tiny part of the universe, and yet still a special, unique creation of God. And I am the same.
After a little more pondering, my impatience got the best of me, and I shifted the unfolded container slightly, preparing to encourage its former contents to take flight. Apparently, it sensed my intention and flew away without my prodding. My reflection began anew. How often had I stood at the brink of some new challenge, looking out, wondering, indecisive about jumping out or stepping back? I am reminded of a quote from one of my most powerful mentors, Reverend Armen Hanjian. “We can choose to step out in faith, or step back in fear.” I have done both, and I think my richest rewards come from the former.
