Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, it became a butterfly.
—English Proverb
Metamorphosis. Such a great word, and one that preschoolers love to roll around their tongues. The life cycle of a butterfly, from egg to caterpillar to chrysalis to adult, is one of the most spectacular displays of nature. If you have never experienced its wonder, don’t blink because the creature changes in seconds. When the chrysalis turns from iridescent green with gold specks to translucent, you know a butterfly will soon emerge. Nicholas, the most squirrelly kid in the classroom, would sit for long periods of time, waiting, watching, and anticipating. His unwavering vigilance paid off when he announced to us, “It’s time!” We all watched breathlessly and in silence as the wrinkled, winged butterfly emerged, slowly unfurled its majesty of orange and black wings, and stretched its body. With wide, crystal-blue eyes, Nicholas exclaimed, “Isn’t that the most beautifulest, marveloustest thing you ever saw?”
In loving memory of Gryphon House author Leanne Grace, MEd, we are sharing pieces of her inspirational writing every Wednesday. Leanne was the director of professional development at Hildebrandt Learning Centers and a lifelong advocate for early childhood education. She inspired the early childhood community to prepare children as lifelong learners with her ability to find the extraordinary in the ordinary. One person can make a difference, and Leanne did just that. She will be sorely missed.
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