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Butterflies are so lovely! The names that mean butterly in 2 other languages are also my favorite words for that language. In german they are “schmetterling” and in the African Chichewa they are “gulugufe”
( Written in the Fall of 2018 as we prepared to move ( again)
overseas from the USA to Africa)
It’s sad to see them go as the seasons grow colder here in the midwest so I look forward to their flutter in a matter of days as I take my first walk around the garden “backyard” in Africa !! That seems perfectly unreal. A few years ago my hubby and I celebrated our 15th wedding anniversary when we lived in Malawi, Africa and were given opportunity to stay in the most extraordinary place. We chose to stay in a B&B that had no electricity, the water was heated by fire and all of the food was locally grown and the gardens were surrounded by flowers and butterflies. We ate the most scrumptious berry pie and took exhilarating walks. One particular hike we saw an amazing variety of butterflies and were able to capture some of them with photographs.
Butterflies are also very symbolic of new life. As a teacher it is always fun to teach the cycle of a butterfly. How thrilling when the crumpled wings of the butterfly emerge from it’s cocoon. Certainly we are all familiar with the beautiful Eric Carle book – a must read for all ages. More importantly, the butterfly’s spiritual meaning are a reminder of new life given to us through Jesus. That’s why I absolutely love the broken winged gulugufe which we found on our hike.
We are all broken and in need of a Savior. It’s been an emotional journey these past couple months as we’ve said good-bye to friends we knew just a short while in Kansas but whom we are thrilled to now know and keep in touch with, we have re-connected with many friends as we waited here in Wisconsin for the approval to go overseas but now we say good-bye. In 2 days we’ll hug our sweet Louisa girl tight as can be as we say good-bye until Christmas when she visits her new home for the first time. And we have moved my dear Mom from her life long home into assisted living and that has been a difficult good-bye in so many ways.
Even now as I revise this post – we have 2 children in the US in high school and in a years time ALL our children will be in the USA while we live worlds away on different continents.
The news that we were returning to Africa made us soar with excitement way back in March and then 7 months went by. Along the way our wings have been crumpled or broken a little here or there. It’s a sinful world. Financial strain, a life in transition, the difficult good-byes, to name just a few. The broken winged schmetterling was so beautiful despite and still it could fly ! Soon we’ll pick up our broken wings and soar into our new life too. I am reminded of the promise
John 16:33
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
What a glorious reminder that we won’t have a perfect life here on this earth but we will have the guidance and protection of a loving God and in the end the sins of the world and of ourselves are overcome for us through our Savior.
It will be hard to be so far away from our very own children still growing up through their educational years and the long flights that are needed to be together often for only a few short weeks.
God gives us imagery in the world He created , for example, the butterfly symbolism of new life reminding us we are given new life through Jesus.
Taking this comforting knowledge with us as we leave behind that which has once again become familiar. As we head into a new culture and home life, work and friendships which we know will be overwhelming at times, we are confident just as the recurring symbolism of God’s love for us occurs in the world around us through the beautiful butterflies world wild! Thank you Lord God, thank you butterlies.
Wondering about other gifts God has given us to help us through His creation – check out my Essential Oil page.
I do believe that God has given us all that we need through the world that He created including herbs and plants that can be distilled or cold pressed to give us the plants benefits which can be carried with us anywhere at any time and give us natural solutions to life’s challenges chemical free !
What are some essential items that we often carry with us even across the ocean? Check out the Must Have market.
What experiences have you had with butterflies? Leave a comment below !
Praying you have a safe and easy trip so you can transition into your new life! We will miss you but we are so proud of the work you are doing.
Thanks Sis !!
May God bless and keep you all safe on your travels! You are in my thoughts and prayers as you go on your next adventure!
Thank you SO much – hugs !!
Praying for fewer obstacles and a safe journey for your into your new life. We had a lovely lunch at Culver’s and visit with your Mom today. She has a beautiful apartment and such friendly folks at her new residence. It will become her home gradually.
Thank you so much and thanks for visiting Mom ! She has such wonderful friends.
Beautiful picture Kathy! Thanks for sharing your “new” African adventures. Blessings to you add your family!
Thanks much Rachel! Thanks for reading – blessings to your family as well as you head into the busy holidays and cold ! Zambia is a great warm weather travel destination 🙂