The part that stands out most to me, is the care given by Suzanne. As we begin to recognize the transformation within- and the relationship with a transcendental reality- how might we move to care for others? Suzanne did not shout at the caterpillar, or even use words to dictate the insects transformation. She did not say, what are you doing caterpillar?! Don't you realize you are a butterfly?! Too many, excited by their own progress, shout their beliefs from the top of the mountain- sometimes at the detriment of another who, though walking up the same mountain, takes another path to get there.
Instead, Suzanne recognizes the needs of the caterpillar and the butterfly and with great tender care assist the transformation by creating an ideal environment for every stage of its development.
Likewise, true progress means seeing beyond our differences and nurturing them anyways.
I was accosted by a mentally ill person one Tuesday. I believe they were of the notion that I must be racist for making eye contact and wishing them good morning. My life was threatened and I was trying to understand what just happened. Later that day I received this email. I didn't think much of it right away. I was extremely grateful but still absorbed in the emotions of what had transpired. That I received this story, on that day, after that particular moment is nothing short of a Miracle. The Divine is Real.
On Jan 27, 2026 Tides wrote on The Super Chrysalis, by John J. Prendergast: