What is Mothering Metamorphosis?

Metamorphosis is a change. Part of the definition of Metamorphosis is “any complete change in appearance, character, circumstances...”

As a woman, I am constantly striving for positive change in my life. I want to be better in practically every area of my life. Believe me, there is plenty of room for improvement. I also want to help my children grow and become better individuals. I want them to become their best selves.

Several years ago, my dear friend, Brandy, taught me about the lessons we can learn from the Metamorphosis of a butterfly. I have thought about this often and feel inspired to share it. 

Caterpillars are hatched with great potential, but they have to grow and change to reach that potential. Caterpillars crawl on the ground, in the dirt, or across the plants on which they live. They eat leaves. In fact, they spend most of their time eating and growing.

When a caterpillar enters the cocoon, so many extraordinary changes take place. At one point, there is little that would appear to be either a butterfly or a caterpillar. Instead, inside of the cocoon appears to be more of a soupy, broken-down mess. Eventually, the transformation is complete and a beautiful butterfly emerges.

Butterflies are exquisite. They don't crawl on the ground or in the dirt. They fly and have a completely different perspective of the world around them. Their desires have changed! These stunning creatures no longer seek just leaves. Now they desire nectar and live on that which is sweet.

There is some beautiful symbolism in this example for us. We each start off with great potential. We grow and work towards positive change in our lives. As we put off the 'natural man' and change to become followers of righteousness, we might find that the cocoon stage is messy. Our trials and struggles often feel like they are tearing us apart and breaking us down. In reality, if we hold on to the Savior and endure in hope, we discover that those hardships are making us a better, more beautiful version of our former selves.

I want to be the best version of myself – for myself and for my family. I want to change my desires so that they align with the Lord's. I believe that change -real and lasting change- is possible only through the atonement and grace of Jesus Christ.

Mothering Metamorphosis is the process of change that we go through as mothers and as women. This blog is dedicated to spiritually focused mothering and growth.

I invite other women and mothers to ponder the lessons of Metamorphosis, and join me as we endure the struggles, the dirt, the mess, the change, and the beauty that is this life.