Mariposa, Random Direction

Mariposa makes me think of a butterfly’s cocoon. I reminds me of the absolute miracle that is a butterfly’s metamorphosis. Mariposa invites us to sit between butterfly wings, on a chrysalisesque bench, welcoming change. As such, we can envision new life.

I have long been fascinated by a butterfly’s chrysalis. What exactly is a chrysalis, that essential element of a caterpillar’s journey? Scientifically speaking, the chrysalis is a distinct developmental stage in which the pupa of a caterpillar develops into an adult butterfly. The childhood structures of the larval caterpillar are broken down and adult features emerge. Butterflies leave the chrysalis as adults, and are immediately confronted with the challenge of using their newly-formed wings. Color and spectacle in place, their wings must be hardened through a process of rigorous flapping so they can take flight. There are no hard and fast rules as to how long a butterfly stays inside its chrysalis. There is no prescribed method by which a butterfly frees itself. However, it is generally accepted by butterfly scholars that breaking free from the chrysalis occurs as a result of a hormonal response within the butterfly. A complete metamorphosis occurs inside a chrysalis.

When I see Mariposa, I think about a metamorphosis. I think about the promise of spring. I think about the biology of change. I think about the beauty of wings. What does metamorphosis look like for me right now? What opportunities, possibilities, doors, heights, dreams, goals exist? Is paying attention a key to metamorphosis, in the way that listening and seeing are key to our heart’s growth? I think about the not yet and why. I think about the complete sentence: I am.

A Note on my Atlanta Beltline Writing Project

I am practicing paying attention. I am practicing noticing beauty. I am practicing getting in touch with my artist self. I am practicing connecting with the outdoors. I am practicing my inner Mary Oliver. I live in Atlanta, “the city in a forest.” I live on the Atlanta Beltline, an interurban trail that graces the city. The Beltline is part arboretum, part art gallery, part park. It connects shops and restaurants and homes with people of all descriptions. I walk on the Beltline 4 or 5 times a week. I have spent the last year appreciating all that it is. I have personally photographed the images I will share. My hope is to write about it — its art, trees, landmarks, etc.— for the next few weeks as spring unfolds.