Today while walking on the beach with my sisters a butterfly landed by our feet. We leaned in closer expecting him to fly away, but instead he climbed onto Meredith's hand and let her carry him. She walked for some time with him riding on her shoulder, and though he had many opportunities and was capable, he didn't fly away. He stayed with us as we walked to expanse of the beach. Even when we took him to the edge of the sand where there were plenty of grass and plants, he refused to leave us. I'm sure there is something he wanted to teach us about timing, because though we had tried to set him free he wouldn't go until he was ready. After about fifteen minutes of journeying with us down the beach, we heard a flutter and he was gone, on his own time, with no warning.
It was an experience I know I'll never have again. This peaceful, beautiful creature blessing us with his gentle presence, walking with us as we traveled in awe, and leaving us only when we had had time to soak in everything he had to offer. He knew not to leave us too soon. He went willingly and of his own accord, not when we were trying to force him.
In the grand scheme of things, it was a short time with him, but it taught us so much.
Thanks for the inspiration, Mr. Butterfly. You are beautiful.
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