You, tender little thing, along with millions of friends and
relatives, were born down south, beyond the border in romantic, sunny Mexico.
And yet, somewhere in the four steps of your life, perhaps while nibbling on the
leaves of jalapeno pepper plants, as a hungry caterpillar, you remembered a
song and had a deep desire to lift off someday, and head north. Perhaps it was
part of an unspoken, mandatory plan. Patiently, you waited for the rain to
subside.
Inside that chrysalis, you changed into your superhero
outfit. A flashy number in shades of tangerine orange, against a background of
black, with white polka dots decorating the edges. In case you were wondering,
the chocolate-hued lingerie coordinates perfectly. Elegant, almost like a miniature
Monarch. The media calls you a Painted Lady, but you know you’re more than your
colors. You have the strength to travel thousands of miles, and are determined
to see the world.
When the rains drained into the sandy soil, you emerged,
flapping adorable, transparent wings. Traveling by day, you avoided windshields
and swooping birds that rushed towards you, as you fluttered over fences.
 |
| Taking a short break on my rosemary plants. |
At times, you’d stop along the way for pollen refreshments before checking out the famous super bloom of poppies along the fifteen freeway.
The
warm spring air and the blossoms of sweetness will carry you as far as you desire. Goodbye butterfly.
Safe travels.
