I’ve always been attracted to butterflies. My nickname in high school was ButterFly GiRL. I have a butterfly tattoo. What can I say? Haha. They were always magical to me.

Over the years, I learned about (and love) the different things that they represent; the symbolism, metaphor, significance. But it wasn’t until recently that I learned another valuable lesson.

I was aware of how cutting the cocoon for a butterfly can be detrimental to its lifespan and growth. What I didn’t realize is that this also applies to the ones that I love.

I often try to help out my family and friends, but now I realize that sometimes what I see as “helping” them is actually “hurting” their growth. I want to stop clipping other people’s butterfly wings–and let their transformation take place. Allow them to make their own mistakes. A wise person told me recently that sometimes we’re not meant to be their teacher and lecture them; but rather comfort them when they fall.

For me, it’s hard to watch someone struggle and fall. But like the developing butterfly, I must let them struggle on their own so they can grow and transform.