As I walked by, I spotted a butterfly.
Some people say that if you've lost a child, their spirit will visit you in the form of butterflies. I'm not sure I really believe that. I'm hesitant to put a lot of stock into these "signs." I understand that many people find them comforting. I wish I could. I just don't want to invent things just to try and make myself feel better. I do know that every time I see a butterfly, I automatically think of Eliza. So if that's a way for her spirit to visit me, then I guess I should accept that truth for what it is.
When I came out of the post office several minutes later, the butterfly was still there. Evidently waiting for me to get out my cell phone and snap this photo:
Christmas is a time for celebrating friends and family, a time that we take stock of our blessings and hope for better days to come. It's also a time for remembering those we've loved and lost. Whether or not you believe in signs like butterflies, I hope you find a quiet moment in which you feel close to all your loved ones this year.
i hear you about signs. i struggle with that. i do find comfort in certain things: frogs, butterflies. and i too don't really know if that's a sign or not. but if it brings me comfort even for a sec, i grab onto it as hard as i can. it may sound ridiculous to some, but my heart just can't believe that he is gone forever. it won't let me. i know that physically he is gone. but i can't let go. love it's a powerful thing. *sigh*
ReplyDeletehoping this cmas is gentle on you guys. ((hugs))
A butterfly on a butterfly bush. Beautiful. I don't put a lot of stock in signs, either, but butterflies (and dragonflies) now always catch my eye and make me wonder.
ReplyDeleteI always think that even if I don't believe it's actually my son's spirit coming to "visit" me, if I think of him when I see something, then it's a blessing no matter what, right? I don't know if that makes sense. I guess just that every time I see a big puffy dandelion, I think to myself "Hi Otis" and that can't be bad, because it makes me smile to think of him at those times, even if my thoughts make me miss him.
ReplyDeleteRambly rambly comment. Sorry.
Beautiful butterfly.
And so much love to you, remembering Eliza always. xo
Sometimes it's these little moments of hoping.. even though we don't know for certain.. and with that hope come a little light. Beautiful picture Brooke.. sending hugs.
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure about "signs" either... we attend an annual memorial butterfly release & for that reason, butterflies have become very special to us. I always get a thrill when i see one... & I have to admit, they often turn up just when my spirits most need lifting. ; )
ReplyDeleteYep, I'm with you on this. I thought this was such a gorgeous post.
ReplyDeletexo