

### CHRYSALIS

### ~ Personal Transformation From The Inside Out ~

### Ann Vanino

Smashwords Edition

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For Ermanno

"We delight in the beauty of the butterfly but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty." \- Maya Angelou

### TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction

Chapter One **  
The Caterpillar ~** Living in an Ordinary World ~

Chapter Two **  
The Cocoon ~** Shedding Skin and Withdrawing ~

Chapter Three **  
Growth and Struggle ~** Development ~

Chapter Four **  
The Butterfly ~** A New Existence~

Chapter Five **  
Our Collective Chrysalis ~** The Transformation of the World ~

Chapter Six **  
Postscript ~** Transformation From the Inside Out ~

Thank You!

Resources

Acknowledgements

About The Author

Connect With Ann Vanino

Other Books By Ann Vanino

Reading Group Guide

### Introduction

We are living in a time of transformation. Old ways are fading. New ways are emerging. There is an increasing focus within. Many of us are feeling a desire to create a new direction for our lives.

At the same time, our outer world is experiencing a quickening that promises to be powerful. This change involves construction and destruction, polarity and collaboration, creativity and retrenchment, fear and courage, confusion and certainty, and chaos and order—all occurring side by side.

Many have compared the changes we are experiencing to nature's Chrysalis—a biological process through which a caterpillar transforms, within the recesses of a dark cocoon, into a butterfly. The inklings for this book began as I wondered if nature's process of Chrysalis could serve as a guide for us as we navigate our own transformations. I think it can. Each stage of Chrysalis provides a jumping-off point, upon which to reflect about our own experiences, as the world around us and we as individuals transform.

I call this book a Journaling Stream. I use the stages of nature's Chrysalis as containers for my writings—thoughts, musings, stories, and creations on personal transformation from the inside out. These writings form separate drops that come together and create a stream.

Writing this book has been a transformation for me. The energy of my life is shifting quietly and profoundly. My focus has moved increasingly within. Deeper parts of myself are coming into view. At the same time, I feel a sense of birthing—my new self is gradually emerging.

The word Chrysalis is derived from the Greek word Chrysos, which means gold. My hope is that there is gold in this book for you. It is time for each of us to recognize and embrace our own transformation, and that of the world around us, to a higher plane of existence and possibility. This book is created for you in the hope that you will undergo your own Chrysalis and emerge with wings to fly.

Ann Vanino

March 20. 2015

Pinon Hills, CA, USA

### Chapter One

### The Caterpillar

### ~ Living in an Ordinary World ~

Nature's Chrysalis: The caterpillar is living in an ordinary world, an insect on the ground, going about its life. It is feeding and growing. As it grows, it sheds its skin four or more times in order to enclose its rapidly growing body.

Your Chrysalis: You are going about your life within society. You are growing, experiencing, learning, and changing as you go. You are living in an ordinary world.

The Ordinary World

The ordinary world is where you spend your childhood, grow to be an adult and find your way in life. Your ordinary world is greatly influenced by family, friends, mentors, and the structure and values of society. Many people never leave the ordinary world. The societal structure encourages conformity and safety, and there is much that persuades you to stay there. Your true differentiation and unique identity are yet to be realized when you remain in the ordinary world.

The ordinary world sets the stage for your Chrysalis.

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Walking, walking....no hint of ever flying.

The ordinary world is limiting. Look at the caterpillar moving so close to the ground. Does it ever think of flying? The caterpillar is fulfilling its purpose...that of a caterpillar. Little does it know that, beyond its imagination, lays the potential to be a butterfly.

\---

Some questions for you:

What comprises your ordinary world?

Are you still there?

What is your approach to ordinary life?

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The Meaning of Ordinary Life

What's the point? Why are you born into ordinary life with the prospect of leaving it all behind? Many of the earth's indigenous cultures guided their members to finding their own identities and purposes in life by leaving ordinary life behind and venturing out on their own. However, today's society does not always recognize the journey out of childhood and ordinary life.

Ordinary life has its purpose. It gives you a foundation in the world. You have the time to experience people, life, love, anger, and pain; to establish your preferences: your likes and dislikes; to interact with others and to gain some experience of living on earth. Sometimes, your foundation is solid; sometimes it is cracked. Whatever the condition of your foundation, it is what you stand on. You can strengthen it, fix it or ignore it. That's up to you.

What are some of the elements of ordinary life?

Relationships

Emotions

Experiences

Physical Self and Surroundings

Knowledge

Needs and Wants

From these foundational elements you create a sense of self—your identity, how you fit into the world, your values. Your sense of self influences the direction you aim your life in. From your sense of self come your dreams—what you want and desire. You can pursue your dreams or sidestep them. The choice you make profoundly affects your life.

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Blending In

In the ordinary world,

Your life blends in.

You are in a place of not knowing.

Consciousness is limited.

You see no way out, nor are you looking for one.

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The Blessings of the Ordinary World

If you are lucky, you will realize one or more of the blessings of the ordinary world. What are they?

Love

Warmth

Food

Guidance

Education

Adventure

The Familiar

Color

Nature

Faith

People

Places

Fun

These same elements can also be great challenges. For some, families can harm them or guidance can be hard to find. Negative experiences can break you when you are young and that is tragedy. But if the challenges do not break you, they can turn into hard-earned blessings that are preparation for the journey that lies ahead—giving you an advantage that others do not have.

\---

Try this:

Take a cup of water.

Let it be still.

Then, stir it up with your finger.

New dimensions are shown—

Height, shape and depth.

That is you.

There is much beneath your surface

That in the ordinary world is not seen.

\---

Asleep When You're Awake

Sometimes, you can sleep through your entire life in the ordinary world. What can put you to sleep?

Judgment

Spending your time focusing on others faults or mishaps rather than on your own life.

Turning off

Losing yourself in television, the internet or some other medium so you do not have to deal with life.

Getting lost in the drama of life

Deciding you are a victim; looking for others' approval rather than your own; being angry all the time; being sad a lot.

Conforming

Allowing society, or a subset of it, to make the rules for you and never venturing from those rules.

Fear

Letting the prospect of the unknown paralyze you and keep you from taking risks or adventures beyond your ordinary life.

The opinions of others

Letting others, even those you care about and who care about you, tell you what your life should be.

Rules

Following a set of rules, not of your making, which do not serve you or lead you to a better life.

Being deaf to your intuitive and inner self

Not listening within to determine what you really want and what is best for you.

Becoming numb

Deadening your senses so you do not feel the pain of life.

Creating "have tos" of your own making

Telling yourself why you cannot pursue your dreams because you have to do something else.

Sacrifice

Hurting yourself in a way that does not serve you.

\---

The White Rabbit

You rush! You rush!

Past your dreams and desires.

So much to do!

In your running, you do not see.

In your rushing, is your blindness —

To life well lived, to choice, to happiness.

So, what are you to do?

Slow down!

Smell the flowers—

They have joy to give you, that rushing cannot give.

In your slowing, comes wisdom,

Comes peace.

You are no longer mad in the ordinary world.

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The Walls of the Ordinary World

What makes up the walls of your ordinary world?

They are made of rules, judgments and conformity;

Of fear of change, doing what you "should" do,

Of feeling safe in conformity.

These walls are often invisible to you, when you live within them.

At times you may see them, yet don't know how to fell them.

They serve a purpose—to keep you in, to give your world shape.

But, after a while they restrict you—

Put your creativity and uniqueness to sleep,

Stifle the child within you.

\---

Two questions for you:

What have been the blessings and challenges of your ordinary world?

What makes up the walls of your ordinary world?

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Biding Time in the Ordinary World

What happens when you live in the ordinary world as a fully-grown adult? For a while, it is okay. There is much to engage you—work, money, family, community, goals, fun, and learning.

At a point, you may start to sense that there is something more to life. The ordinary world is no longer providing the fulfillment you are looking for. It is as if a crack appears, slowly at first. Signs emerge, perhaps a growing, underlying dissatisfaction with your life, questions you have that are not getting answered, challenges that you are not prepared to deal with, unexplained anger, depression, health issues, or a yearning for something deeper, more inward. Your ordinary world becomes an uncomfortable place.

You have the choice to ignore the signs or to follow where they lead.

\---

Wanting to Burst Out, but Not Knowing How

During your journey in the ordinary world, you may begin to feel inklings of confinement. What happens then?

Sometimes you don't recognize the inklings and they go away for a while. Sometimes fear rushes in and says, "ignore them" or "harm will come to you and life will no longer be as you know it now" and you give in to fear. Other times, the inklings become beads along a trail, leading you to somewhere new.

Society could do more to celebrate these inklings as the emergence of character and identity that they are. Often, there are no guides. You are on your own. It makes some sense, as your path is uniquely your own.

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Shedding Skin

In the Ordinary World, a caterpillar may shed its skin four or more times to enclose its growing body. As you set out in the ordinary world, you grow—sometimes with pain and other times with joy. What is this growing comprised of? In childhood and young adulthood, it is response and reaction to the world around you and the effects your experiences have on you. As you grow, your outer self accommodates. In this way, you shed your previous skin. Shedding of skin is a renewal that occurs each time you grow and change.

Growth stagnates without shedding of skin. Your skin gets old. It may be worn and comfortable, but a part of you can no longer grow—there is no more room.

If you do not grow, you make a choice to:

Accept the status quo

Avoid change

Stay comfortable

Turn aside your curiosity

Sublimate your true desires

Give in to fear

Deny uncertainty

Think this world is all there is

Adopt someone else's version of life, rather than your own

Give up

Shedding of skin has its challenges. It's uncomfortable and is not always supported by those around you. Each time you shed a skin, you feel loss. You may even think you are dying.

When you shed a skin, you make a choice to:

Follow your truth

Believe in yourself

Grow

Differentiate

Find answers

Explore

Create

Expand

Change

Strengthen

\---

Unicorns

There are no dragons or unicorns in the ordinary world. Not much magic. You get by, day by day, but enchantment, adventure and mystery are in short supply.

\---

Another World

It's like a goldfish, happy in its glass bowl on your table. The bowl is its world. What if the goldfish jumps out of its bowl and can survive?

\---

### A TALE OF ANCESTORS

### (A Tale Within a Tale, Within a Tale)

Dorak is excited. Very soon he will be meeting his family at the fire pit, and his grandfather will tell them a tale of ancestors. He wonders what the tale will be about. Ancestors are important to his clan—Dorak's father told him to honor his ancestors. Some day, he too will be an ancestor.

Dorak can't wait. He walks over to the fire pit and looks around. The soil has been cleaned and smoothed, and there are pillows to sit on. Dorak goes home to have a meal before the tale begins.

It's time!!! Dorak walks with his mother and father and brother and sisters to the fire pit. His mother reminds them that they honor the ancestors with silence. Dorak becomes quiet and smiles.

Dorak's grandfather welcomes them and begins the tale.

"Many years ago, life was very difficult for the ancestors. They worked hard just to live. They loved each other, and although they sometimes suffered, they had fun together and their lives were happy. They had food and beauty and shelter and each other.

In their culture, they would mark certain points and passages in each clan member's life. This was very important to them. When a boy or girl reached a certain age, they would be told to prepare for a treasure hunt!! It would be an important passage for them. They would leave their ordinary life and enter the journey to their own identity.

Before the treasure hunt began, each boy or girl would spend several weeks creating a tale of his or her life so far. They could write, draw a picture or create a story to tell—it was up to them. In their creation, they would describe their mother and father, their sisters and brothers, their grandparents, and anyone in their clan who had been a part of their life. For each person, they would identify one gift that person had given them. It could be a good gift or a bad gift; it was some way in which that person had changed their life.

In their tale, they would show the clan who they are—their physical characteristics, how they feel about life, their dreams, what makes them happy, what makes them sad. Once they finished their tale and presented it, each boy or girl would be given a Treasure Map!!

The Treasure Map was a beautiful map drawn with colorful plant dyes on animal skin. The dyes were made each summer and brushes were made to apply the color to the animal skins. The treasure map had a long pathway on it that depicted each boy or girl's life until now as seen by their clan members—their ordinary life. At the end of the pathway was a Golden Gateway that each boy or girl could choose to enter, if they were ready and wanted to fulfill their life's purpose.

It was a hard decision for each boy or girl to make about whether they would enter the Golden Gateway. To enter the Golden Gateway, they would have to leave their ordinary life behind. Did they want to do that? Ordinary life was comfortable. Others helped them get food, took care of them and told them how to live. When you enter the Golden Gateway, you are in charge of your journey. Others may still be around, but it wasn't the same as ordinary life.

The treasure for each boy or girl lay beyond the Golden Gateway. What they would find beyond the Golden Gateway was unknown. They would find their treasure through courage and adventure and becoming the hero of their own life.

One day an ancestor named Drego received his treasure map. He was scared. He felt safe in his life and wasn't sure he wanted to venture from it. What would he do? He had one more sun and moon and then he must decide. How would he make such an important decision? His mother told Drego to dream on it, and the ancestors would help him. That night, as he went to sleep, he asked for help from the ancestors.

Drego began to dream. In his dream, Drego was visited by a dragon. She was beautiful with rainbow-color shimmering scales and a beautiful, red head. She invited him to jump on her back and fly with her to the land of the ancestors.

They flew for two moons and finally reached the land of the ancestors. It was a peaceful land with soft, rolling hills, flowers and streams. They touched the ground and were greeted by a man named Rector and a woman named Anelle, who invited Drego and the dragon to sit by a stream as they had a story to tell him. It was the story of the Golden Gateway!

***********

The Story of the Golden Gateway

Many years ago, there was only one way of life. Everyone lived together and did the same things. People were safe and life was predictable. One day, a girl named Chrysa began to wander. She wanted more in her life. For the last several days, Chrysa had been hearing a melodic horn that seemed to be calling her. She decided to follow the sound of the horn. She walked from the sun's first light until it was high in the sky. The sound of the horn was very close. Chrysa was excited!

A short time later, Chrysa came to the most beautiful gateway she had ever seen. It was high and golden and shone in the sunlight. The Golden Gateway began to speak to her. 'Welcome Chrysa! There is so much more to life than you and your clan think is possible. I can lead you all to wonderful possibilities. Beyond my gates there is a life of individuality, magic and joy. Once you enter the Golden Gateway, you became the leader of your life, not your clan.' Was Chrysa ready? Chrysa told the gateway that she was looking for more; that she felt she was meant to fulfill a purpose but did not know what it was. The gateway was happy and said, 'Exactly! Your purpose, Chrysa, can only be found by you, and that is the journey you begin when you enter the Golden Gateway.'

Chrysa was happy, but she was concerned. Would she have to leave her clan and all she had known in order to enter the Golden Gateway? The Golden Gateway answered her, 'No, Chrysa, what you do when you enter the Golden Gateway is to leave your ordinary life behind. You become the master of your life, Chrysa. You start a journey where there are challenges, adventures and wonderful happenings. You grow and discover your purpose. Do you want to be the hero of your life, Chrysa?'

Chrysa thought about it for a while and then answered, "Yes, I do!" She was happy with the possibilities before her. Chrysa said goodbye to the Golden Gateway, and as the sun began to lower in the sky, she started her walk home. She knew her life would never be the same and would be filled with adventure when she entered the Golden Gateway. She would go and tell her clan."

********

Grandfather continued: "Drego was awakened by the sound of a horn calling him to the clan. He remembered his dream of the Golden Gateway. He WOULD follow his treasure map and walk through the Golden Gateway!"

Dorak thought his grandfather had told a wonderful tale of the ancestors. He couldn't wait to walk through his own Golden Gateway to the life he was meant to live. Dorak knew that soon he would be leaving his own ordinary life behind.

THE END

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Try This:

Write a tale of your ordinary life. You are the central character. The characters in your tale, including you, are not human; maybe they are animals, mythical beings, plants or something else. In the tale, explain what your ordinary life is like. Are you happy? Will you walk through the Golden Gateway some day? Do you want to or even know that it exists? Have you walked through the Golden Gateway already?

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Why Not Stay a Caterpillar? It's Your Choice.

The ordinary world is what you know.

It's safe.

Other caterpillars are around you.

You don't want to be alone.

You don't like the unknown.

You want to be told how to live.

You have fun.

You have love.

So what about those inklings you are feeling—are they even real?

\- OR –

You look for more than the ordinary world.

There's so much out there that you haven't seen.

You have more to offer.

You like the adventure.

You can do it.

You'll be strong, even as others disapprove.

You'll learn and grow.

Your life will expand.

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Does a Caterpillar Know?

Is all of life contained in the ordinary world? Is there more? What is the purpose of ordinary existence?

A caterpillar does not have the capacity to answer these questions. Nor do you in the ordinary world. You have to take a step away in order to answer them. The answers lie in the beyond—outside of the ordinary. But how can you, in the ordinary world, see that? To move beyond requires a leap of faith and a solo path for a while.

For the caterpillar, the choice is not his or hers to make. Nature predestines it. For you, it is your choice to make.

Will you stay in the ordinary world or walk away from it? Are you game?

\---

### Chapter Two

### The Cocoon

### ~ Shedding Skin and Withdrawing ~

Nature's Chrysalis: This stage defines the future of the insect more than any other, as the caterpillar moves from being earth-bound with sixteen feet to being able to fly thousands of miles on four wings. The caterpillar makes a button of silk, which it uses to fasten its body to a leaf or twig. Then the caterpillar's skin comes off for the final time. Under this skin is a hard skin called Chrysalis. It is a time of hiding and protection and dormancy. The caterpillar is not able to move about in the hard, protective coating.

Your Chrysalis: This is a time of going within. Symbolically, you make a button of silk and attach to your inner self, preparing for a new journey. You detach from parts of your ordinary life and begin to change. You are simultaneously dismantling the old and creating the new. There are challenges, and you are face-to-face with the unknown.

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Beginning

What is the catalyst that leads you to create a silk button and begin your Chrysalis?

Tragedy?

Searching?

Solitude?

Joy?

A Guide?

A Journey?

A Change?

Circumstance?

What is the silk button's purpose?

It keeps you still.

It secures you.

It joins you to yourself.

Why must you be still?

To hear things that cannot be heard in movement,

To quiet yourself for what is to come,

To bring your focus inward,

To separate from the old

So that Chrysalis can begin.

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The Silk Button of Your Chrysalis

Oh, for a tangible silk button as you begin your transformation.

It would be nice to have direction—

"Make a silk button to begin your transformation."

No such luck—

You go on trust and faith and instinct.

It is that trust and faith that weaves the silk

Of which your button is made.

They signal your acceptance of the journey—

"Yes, I will go."

"I will accept the unknown; I want to change."

But, what is your button fastening to?

To guides and guardians who will help you along the way,

To another level of energy than what you have known in the past,

To a new world of magic, quiet and imagination.

As you enter a new world,

The world you have known may still be around you.

However, you will see it in a different way.

Nothing stays the same as your trust and faith weave the silk button of your transformation.

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Try this:

Take a piece of string, and tie two of your fingers together.

Try to do a task with your fingers tied—say drinking a glass of water.

How does it feel?

Something's different.

It slows you down a bit.

You can still hold the glass,

But part of you is otherwise occupied.

You are split.

Three fingers hold the glass; two are tied together.

Your two tied fingers are in a quiet space together.

While you hold the glass with your other fingers,

Your time in the cocoon and your ordinary world can coexist.

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The Cocoon

Why this cocoon and piercing quiet?

Why this darkness?

Where is the world?

Where is the light?

So much is unknown.

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Must You Retreat to Grow?

Do you have to retreat to grow as the caterpillar does before it transforms into a butterfly? Removing yourself from the influences of society strengthens your individual identity and expands your creativity. Transformation often requires stillness; that is how you listen to the voice within.

There is no definitive answer to this question. Unlike the caterpillar, each person's Chrysalis is unique and is theirs alone.

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Hiding

Oohh, this hiding isn't too bad.

There is beauty in darkness,

And there is peace in silence.

You are alone—

Quiet,

Thinking,

Experiencing,

Sensing,

Seeing

In the dark

It's not so bad here.

Why were you afraid?

You begin to think it will be all right.

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The Power of Silence

You may think silence is empty, like the desert.

Sit for a while and touch the power of silence.

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The Presence of Protection

The cocoon provides protection for the caterpillar's process of transformation. In the time of your own Chrysalis, you are protected as well. You create a space for transformation, and your trust and courage put you in a higher energy where protection is sensed. You are held by a force that keeps you safe—just as the cocoon protects the caterpillar.

There may be times when logic says you are about to fall. Then, suddenly, you experience miracles all around you—money appears from unexpected places, intuitive guidance is plentiful, the right person shows up, just in time, and you do not fall.

When you say "yes" to your own transformation, a protective space is created around you, and you are given what you need to keep going.

\---

Quiet

Quiet allows you to see and hear things you have never experienced before. At first, quiet can be uncomfortable. The noise and activity you are used to has been a shelter of sorts. As quiet envelops you begin to still. From a place of stillness, you can experience so much more.

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THE QUIET TREE

On a beautiful, open hill, there stood a tree. Day after day it experienced the rain, the sun, the wind, the heat, and the cold. In spring it blossomed; in winter it was bare. Always, it was content with life and was silent and still. This did not mean that nothing was going on. The tree had sprouted from a seed into a sapling, grown to full size and changed with the seasons. But to travelers walking by the tree, it seemed that nothing was going on. The tree was something to look at and then move beyond.

One day, a young girl named Sara sat by the tree to take a rest. As she sat, her eyelids became heavy. She hadn't realized how tired she was, and she lay down for a short nap. During her nap, she had a dream. The tree had a face and began to speak to her. The tree said, "Sara, there are many languages and nature has one of its own. There are wonderful things to learn from nature, if you can be still and listen."

Sara awoke with a start! What had just happened? Did the tree speak to her? Oh, she thought, I was just dreaming. She picked up her things and began walking home.

In the following days, Sara could not get the tree out of her mind. It was as if the tree was calling her. The next weekend, she went back to the tree and became very still. As if by magic, she began to sense that the tree wanted to teach her. The tree communicated without words, but she knew it was saying something. The tree asked her if she would come back, once each week, to learn about the power of stillness.

Sara was not sure. What would her family and friends think if she told them a tree was teaching her about stillness? She knew they'd think she was crazy. But, something kept drawing her, and she decided to give it a try.

The next week, on a beautiful Saturday morning, she sat by the tree and said, "I want to learn from you." At that moment, a beautiful flower fell from the tree. Sara picked the flower up and became still. Sara still could not understand how they were communicating, but they were, and she accepted it. The tree said that her first lesson was about sound and noise. "There are many kinds of sound: a beautiful bird song or the sounds of a loving conversation. Then there is noise. Noise can distract you from yourself. Noise is unwanted sound and is usually loud, unpleasant or disturbing in some other way. There is nothing innately wrong with noise, but your society has created way too much of it. Noise has overtaken both sound and silence. Sara, you can lessen the noise in your life by creating times of stillness. Next week, before we meet again, Sara, create twenty minutes of stillness each day."

During the week, Sara tried each day to create twenty minutes of stillness. It wasn't easy! The first day, her mind would not stop thinking. All kinds of thoughts kept popping up as if they were trying to block the stillness. What would she do? She decided that the next day she would sit again for twenty minutes, but this time, she would let her thoughts come and go, like a flowing river. She would not get caught in any one of them. This helped and she actually was still for five minutes. The fourth day, she set an intention to be empty during the entire twenty minutes. By empty, she meant that she would be still and as quiet as possible. That really helped; her mind was quieting down.

The next Saturday, Sara walked back to the tree. She was excited to tell the tree about her stillness this week. As she sat down, the tree welcomed her. She told the tree that by her last day, her stillness was very enjoyable, and there was a lot less thought and noise than when she started at the beginning of the week. The tree told her that this week she would learn about the benefits of stillness.

The tree said, "There are as many benefits of stillness as there are leaves and flowers on my branches. Here are a few: stillness calms your emotions, mind and body—they need a rest beyond the sleep you get each night. Stillness allows you to hear things you cannot hear when noise is around. Stillness is the only way to access the wisdom we all have within us. Your mind is a wonderful tool, but that is what it is—a tool. In our world today, the mind thinks it is our ruler. It tries to block out silence and stillness. Your human minds have run amuck! To find the benefits of stillness, the mind must be balanced with emotions, body and soul. The mind has to grow from being a runaway train of thought and worry, to being a center point of your wisdom. When that happens, you become powerful in a very big way."

The tree asked Sara to continue in the next week with her twenty minutes of stillness each day and to pay attention to what happens to her mind, emotions, body, and soul when she is still. Sara wasn't sure what the tree meant by what happens to her soul, but she figured she would find out. She said goodbye and thank you to the tree and walked home.

During the week, Sara's twenty minutes of stillness were getting easier. She was enjoying her times of stillness more and more. She paid attention to how the stillness affected her. One thing she noticed was that her emotions were calmer after she was still for a while. If she had been angry that day, she felt better when she finished her stillness time. Her mind was getting used to the stillness. Sometimes she would have a rush of thoughts, especially when she started, but she would tell her mind to quiet, and it would. She thought her soul was enjoying the stillness too. Something inside her was feeling better. A peace was growing, and she was calmer than before.

The next Saturday Sara told the tree about her week, and the tree said it could sense a difference in her. She seemed calmer and surer of herself. The tree said that today she would learn about the ways you can use the stillness. Sara had never thought of using stillness before. The tree said: "Stillness is a tool, just as the mind is. Say, Sara, you have an important decision to make. You can use stillness to settle yourself, so that you make the best decision possible. Or, say you are feeling anxious or worried. You can use stillness to let those feelings go." The tree asked Sara to continue her twenty minutes of stillness each day and also find three times during the week when she could use stillness to help her.

During the week, Sara kept up her twenty minutes of stillness. Some of her friends told her there was something different about her, but they didn't know what it was. Sara smiled. One day at school a girl, who was known as a bully, came up to her in the schoolyard. The girl started teasing Sara in front of her friends. Sara was upset and started feeling bad. Then she remembered she was supposed to use stillness this week to help her. How could stillness help her now? She got still, just for a moment, and then felt less upset. What was this girl doing? Sara told the girl if she did not have something nice to say to her, they needn't continue speaking. The girl didn't know what to say and walked away.

Later that day at home, Sara's Dad was in a bad mood when he came home from work. He yelled at Sara to clean up her toys right away. Sara felt sad. After she cleaned up her toys, she went to her bedroom and was still. It took a while for her emotions to calm, but soon she was feeling better. She went down to dinner, and her father was in a much better mood. He thanked her for cleaning up her toys. Sara thought that maybe she hadn't angered him; it was just his bad mood that made him yell at her.

Sara was beginning to understand what the tree was saying about using stillness! The next day Sara was feeling very sad. Her friend John had just told her he was moving to another state because his mother had a new job. John was Sara's best friend. What would she do without him? Sara went for a walk. She thought, even though I am walking, I can create some stillness. She thought about John and realized she could not change that he was leaving. She did have one good thought—that it would be lots of fun to visit John and his family in their new home. It felt better when she was walking, and she decided to take a walk every day until she felt better about John's leaving.

The next Saturday, Sara was so excited as she walked to the tree. She couldn't wait to tell the tree how she had used stillness. The tree was so happy. The tree said today's lesson would be about why stillness matters. "Stillness is like a gateway or tunnel to new worlds, beyond your everyday life. Sometimes people think that when things are still, nothing is happening. Nothing could be further from the truth. I am a quiet tree. Now, do you think nothing is happening with me?" Sara laughed and said, "No, I don't." The tree continued, "Within stillness, you can explore new parts of yourself. You can access your inner wisdom. And you can manage your emotions, mind, body, and soul so that you are happy in your life." The tree asked Sara to find three ways that stillness matters in the next week.

Sara was very happy as she walked home from the tree that day. Who would have known that she could learn so much from the quiet tree? She was glad she had let herself listen and learn about the power of stillness!

THE END

\---

Try this:

Sit in a quiet, dark room for fifteen minutes.

During that time, completely let go of what you were doing before you came into the room.

Do not think of what will occur once you leave the dark room—

Just be.

How was your experience?

\---

When Your Life Changes, Is It an End or a Beginning?

As something is ending, it can be painful and provoke fear.

Doesn't the old have to go, to make room for the new?

How can something change by staying the same?

When you see something changing in your life, try viewing it as a positive process.

Change is both an ending and a beginning. Good for you to know it as such.

\---

Why Must the Cocoon Be Quiet, Dark and Still?

It is interesting that being quiet in the dark and the stillness deprive you of two senses you use so frequently—sight and sound. Do the quiet, darkness and stillness develop new senses that are necessary for your transformation?

You may dream of heaven and the other side but live as if your immediate world is all you have. Perhaps quiet, darkness and stillness can help you touch new worlds that you have yet to experience.

\---

Disappearing

In this process of transformation, you see parts of yourself, and your life, disappear. You may lose friendships, activities, beliefs, and places that have been the foundation of your life. It is not always a cataclysm or a rapid process. Life just changes and things drift away. You can feel a deep sense of loss and confusion and a gaping hole.

Here are some things you may think about or ask yourself as this occurs:

Where is everything going?

Why am I not engaged in life?

I have a lot to offer—why am I isolated?

What is the point of this?

I have no identity.

I am losing touch with the world.

(Where is the chocolate?)

Why so long like this?

Will I never re-engage?

Why are things not clicking when I am out in the world?

Why the deprivation?

Then, new thoughts may began to surface:

I am feeling a peace I never felt before.

I am seeing things I never saw before.

A lot of creativity is showing up.

The quiet feels good.

Solitude unveils new worlds.

I do not need the things I once thought I could never live without.

Love and kindness is key.

There is another world to touch, if I can be still.

There are so many invitations that I did not see or hear before.

\---

Intuition

In the cocoon, you are left with yourself.

What will guide you?

Your intuition will.

Can you sit there and listen?

That's what it takes.

Your intuition and inner wisdom beckon you in subtle ways:

The small feeling that something isn't right.

Sensing something will happen and it does.

That "little voice" that tells you "yes" or "no."

Once you start noticing your intuition, get to know it. Begin to trust it. It opens a world of magic and newness. It is your inner guidance system. Perhaps, in your transformation, so much falls away so that you have the space to touch your intuition.

In your cocoon, you will be so grateful to have your intuition. It guides you in the dark and helps you hold on to hope. You begin to see and understand beyond the surface of things. You find hope that what is (and is not) happening in your life is leading you somewhere new. You began to separate into your own identity, your own creativity and your own path.

\---

Try this:

For a day, really listen for your intuition. Touch it.

Whether it seems outlandish or sane, follow your intuition all during the day. For example, stop at a point in your day and ask yourself what you should do next. Don't doubt, follow the first thing that comes into your consciousness.

If your intuition guides you to leave for an exotic destination and you can, please do. You may not be able to go. However, if you cannot, then touch that land in some way—on a web site or in your mind.

See where your intuition leads you.

\---

What's Wrong With the Dark?

You're just not used to it.

Life is usually surrounded by cacophony, bustling and distraction

How is the time you spend in the dark?

Peaceful? Scary? Unfamiliar?

What will it take to enjoy the dark?

Letting go of your fear of the boogieman?

Releasing fear?

Surrendering?

What is life like in winter climes where the sun only shines a few hours a day?

You may love the light and the sun.

Perhaps, balance is what is missing.

The cocoon rebalances you with its darkness.

Then, you are ready to transform.

How does a person cope with blindness?

Other senses are heightened,

New adaptations made,

New worlds entered.

The womb is dark.

It provides protection

And warmth

And comfort

So a baby can grow

And emerge into the light

And the bustle of life.

Can you learn to embrace the dark as well as the light?

What do you gain:

Reality,

Perspective,

Truth.

Where is beauty in the dark —

Blackness,

Sameness,

Quiet ,

The cool brightness of the stars.

The rest that it encourages

You dream in the dark.

Dark lets you see in new ways.

Dark honors the unknown.

Your imagination can shine.

What's wrong with the dark?

Nothing.

\---

Into Imago Haiku

Something's moving  
You sense a change occurring  
You keep watch for it

Not more change again!  
You were just acclimating  
To this dark cocoon

You are sure not ready  
For another adjustment  
What is coming next?

\---

### Chapter Three

### Growth and Struggle

~ Development ~

Nature's Chrysalis: Most of the caterpillar's body breaks down, with the help of imaginal cells, initiating biochemical processes that transform the deconstructed caterpillar into a butterfly. Growth and differentiation occur, and structure is born.

Your Chrysalis: This is a time of challenge and miracles. With the struggle and breakdown, comes growth and differentiation. This time asks a lot of you. The way you make it through is with persistence and courage. The result is a new identity and structure for your life, making it all worthwhile.

\---

Histogenesis

The process of histogenesis is the differentiation of cells into specialized tissues and organs during growth. In nature's process of Chrysalis, undifferentiated cells are used to build different body tissues, propelling the transformation from caterpillar to butterfly.

Interestingly, the root of the word is from Latin—histo: tissue and genesis: beginning. Existing tissue of the caterpillar creates a new beginning.

\---

Consuming Yourself

When you are ready for your Chrysalis, must you use your own energy as the caterpillar does? Yes, you must. What is the source of energy? Perhaps it is the strength and courage you have built up in your life or the wisdom you have gained or a deep desire for change that allows you to endure.

\---

Starting With Yourself

In your own Chrysalis, you start from where you are, developed and conditioned by the outside world. Who would think a caterpillar's tissues would create a butterfly? It is a beginning for you, different from anything that has gone before.

\---

Imaginal Cells

In nature's process of Chrysalis, the new cells that are forming are called imaginal cells. What a fabulous name! They differ greatly from the caterpillar's cells. Initially, the caterpillar's immune system destroys them. But the imaginal cells keep coming and soon a tipping point is reached. They survive and multiply, eventually creating the butterfly. A butterfly is composed of imaginal cells! No wonder they have so much beauty and magic.

The caterpillar's initial destruction of imaginal cells has its parallels in your own Chrysalis. As new ideas, experiences and inclinations show up, their differences from your current life may cause you to reject them. You may fear them or see them as foreign. However, over time you will find yourself drawn to them and, symbolically, begin forming your own imaginal cells that eventually become a larger part of you.

Imaginal cells begin the Chrysalis of a butterfly as your own imagination, creativity and willingness to be different may begin yours. How beautiful! And then, your imaginal cells begin to multiply and your deconstruction and reconstruction advance towards your emergence.

\---

Pain, Struggle And Timing

The transformation the caterpillar undergoes is quite intense. You may romanticize the process of nature's Chrysalis and think mainly of the emerging butterfly. In reality, nature's Chrysalis is a complete deconstruction. Followed by a reconstruction!

As you proceed in your own Chrysalis, pain and struggle are often experienced. What is the role of pain and struggle in your Chrysalis? Pain and struggle are part of life and help you grow. Life is both light and dark; you find your way within them both.

The struggle involved in nature's Chrysalis helps the butterfly become strong. If Chrysalis is interrupted early, the butterfly will not survive. In your Chrysalis, you may struggle and experience pain. You find ways to wait—some healthy ways, some not so healthy. It takes courage and resilience to emerge.

It is also about patience. Have you heard the proverb: "Just as the caterpillar thought the world was over, it became a butterfly"? A lot of things have to happen for the transformation of the caterpillar into a butterfly. There is a particular timing for your own Chrysalis as well. While you are transforming, you are in the dark. You may have glimpses of the transformation that is occurring and sense some progress, but the full picture is not seen. Margaret Fuller said, "There is nothing in the caterpillar that tells you it is going to be a butterfly."

\---

What Is the Role of Struggle?

Some questions and responses on struggle:

What is the role of struggle? Is it necessary for growth?

Yes, change involves movement and movement requires exertion.

What is the relationship between struggle and flow?

Side by side. The key is not to get stuck in the struggle. Watch for signs that you are not moving forward.

Do you reach a point where there is no struggle?

Your perspective about struggle transforms. You begin to see it as a part of your transformation, embrace it and move on from it.

Sometimes it seems so long in the cocoon.

You have to be ready to endure.

Can you get stuck in the cocoon?

No.

\---

Try this:

The next time you hurt yourself, a cut or scrape, observe how you handle pain.

How do you experience the pain initially?

What do you do to address the pain? Numb it? Endure it? Get help?

How much do you focus on the pain while you are healing?

How does the pain affect the rest of what you do?

How do you look at the experience once you are healed?

\---

Differentiation

The process of Chrysalis allows differentiation. Within society, differentiation is supported only to a point. As you move away from societal influences (and into the cocoon), you may be alone more than ever before. The challenge lies in undoing societal influences. Moving away from society is alienating and often painful. Growth and development lie in finding out who you are—your true essence and nature. The imaginal cells in your transformation are liberated as you begin to know your essence. You express your creativity freely, take a step towards the life you want to live or differentiate yourself in a new way. As you do, your true self begins to form.

\---

Does the caterpillar know it is emerging?

The caterpillar experiences a drastic loss of identity and comes face-to-face with the unknown in its transformation. What is its struggle like? Does the caterpillar know what it is becoming or even what a butterfly is?

Terror can emerge when you come face-to-face with a loss of identity and extreme unknown. Is this loss of identity and facing the unknown an important part of Chrysalis? YES. You are moving into a state of being that is very unlike the one you are coming from. Risk is inherent in this movement. You have to let go.

You may sense that you are emerging into something new. However, neither the details nor a clear path are evident. Trust and faith are needed, in big doses, as you move forward.

\---

What is the point of Chrysalis and transformation?

For the caterpillar, transformation brings a new beauty and wings to fly.

There are both purpose and meaning to your life here on earth. The journey is to find your own unique voice and to speak it in the world. When you quiet the chatter of the mind and step away into a place of not knowing, you begin to hear your real voice.

As you find your purpose and meaning, you have a positive effect in the world that was not possible before.

\---

Look Around

Dear John, a book by Nicholas Sparks.

Savannah: "My father said when you are struggling, look around you and realize that every person around you is struggling with something."

Some say celebrate struggle; others say banish struggle. Which is it? It is both. Struggle is a part of life that moves you forward. In your own Chrysalis, growth, struggle and emergence are a journey to the beauty of you. While who you are before has its beauty, there is a beauty all your own that emerges as you grow. It is the "all your own" that is key. Chrysalis brings you to yourself and to your unique expression.

How can you endure the struggles that come into your life? First, acknowledge that they often have a purpose. Second, know that the appearance of struggles in your life does not mean you have done anything wrong. Third, search for positives within any struggle to help you grow and strengthen. A struggle with illness can lead you to a new calling, perhaps helping others find healing from the same illness. A difficult situation at work can lead you to take your power because your back is up against a wall. Observing the struggle of another may bring you wisdom about life.

There is a quicksand to avoid relating to growth and struggle. It is not allowing yourself to feel joy and gratitude in the midst of struggle. Joy and gratitude are emotions to always stay close to. You can find them no matter what is happening in your life. They ride side by side with growth and struggle. Joy and gratitude often shine the light you need to emerge.

\---

Try this:

Think of a time of significant struggle that you experienced in your life.

Write a description of that struggle in the center of a circle.

Around the description, but still within the circle, write down what new, positive things began to grow during your struggle and what new imaginal cells were forming within you as you struggled?

\---

Falling Away

Going back to the proverb, "just as the caterpillar thought the world was over, it became a butterfly," the caterpillar thinks it is in one world and does not know that another one is being formed around it. It may be the same in your own Chrysalis. You sense your life falling apart. Aspects of the life you once knew are falling away. You may be alone or in pain. Life is looking rather bleak. Internally, you are changing and growing but your focus, understandably, is on what is dying.

The new life that is forming may not be visible to you. Your mind is relating to what has been before instead of to what is to come.

\---

THE MEADOWLARK'S SONG

It was a beautiful spring morning. A meadowlark was sitting at the top of a tree singing his song. All of a sudden, a strong wind came up, pushing the meadowlark from the tree. He rebalanced and landed on the ground, protected under the very same tree. At that very moment, a fox came along and jumped on the meadowlark. He felt a stinging sensation in his wing. He pulled all his strength in and was able to fly away. Once back at his nest, he found his wing was slightly bent and broken. This would affect his ability to find food and stay safe from predators.

He looked around, but there was nothing left to do. He surrendered to the present so very different from the past he had known just a moment before. It was time to find some food. Fortunately, there was plenty of food within reach—worms and insects, even some grains and seeds. He would not die. His wing was hurting, but he could get around. He found himself very tired as the sun began to set, and he went to sleep.

He awoke to a very different world. He would have to find food very carefully and sharpen his alertness to the presence of predators. This was very strenuous. He felt the urge to sing because that was part of his nature. He painfully made his way to the top of his nesting tree and sang. Softly, at first, but soon his melodies charmed the meadow and he felt happy.

The meadowlark adapted to the reality of his new world. His broken wing was healing, but it would never be as strong as it once was. One day, a female meadowlark came to his tree. They mated, and he never knew such joy. His song became brighter, and soon there were eggs in their nest. With his mate, he could make a better go of things. He had to get ready for their little ones.

Some days, he could not get through the day as he wanted to. With his impaired wing, he dare not venture out if a predator was anywhere close to his nest. This meant he could not hunt for food. He was worried about caring for his family. But he worked hard at adapting, and soon, with an abundance of caution, he could make his way in the world pretty well. He learned new ways to survive and stay safe.

One glorious morning, three baby meadowlarks poked their way through their shells. The meadowlark was a father! He had never felt such happiness. He and his mate fed and cared for them. They certainly were a loud bunch! His song became even brighter.

Soon other meadowlarks came just to hear his song. People were coming too. His melody was enchanting. They witnessed the song of the meadowlark ascending to new beauty. His broken wing had changed him, and a new song came into the world.

THE END

\---

The Crumbling of a Life

Inherent in nature's Chrysalis is destruction. Why must a caterpillar be destroyed to create a butterfly? What is nature telling you in this process of transformation? Is it showing you how you can use your own energy to grow and transform?

Energy is needed for creation. In nature's Chrysalis, imaginal cells fuel the transformation. You create your own imaginal cells by seeking the meaning of your life. As you seek and learn, old beliefs crumble. You create new perceptions and new ways of being. Life is no longer as it was. Think of nature's process of Chrysalis. It all appears as destruction until enough imaginal cells grow and create the new.

What do you do during this crumbling? One of the most crucial things is to accept the presence of the unknown and uncertainty in your life. This is not an easy thing to do. Our society is set up to give you an illusion of safety and security. "Do things on the road well-traveled, and you will be safe and secure." What this illusion actually does is to rob from you the mysteries of life and your true existence. It is these mysteries, and the unknown, that contain the answers you are seeking.

The caterpillar in the cocoon is immersed in uncertainty and unknown. No answers are available until the butterfly emerges. There may also not be many answers available to you as you experience this crumbling, which brings you to trust. Trust that your seeking will bring you to self-knowledge and that the journey in itself is magical.

\---

Great Destruction Brings Rebirth

There are other examples in nature of great destruction bringing rebirth—volcanoes pushing rich new soil to the surface, small earthquakes releasing pressure on a fault line and weathering and erosion creating new land forms.

In your Chrysalis, effort is well spent in balancing the destructive and creative forces occurring in your life. It is a time of some chaos. Your point of gravity is shaken, and stability is not yet regained. Enduring your Chrysalis involves maintaining balance between creation and destruction through discipline and developing habits that support you through this time. As parts of your life crumble, you may need more nurturing. As the new enters your life, you may need to give yourself some time to acclimate.

As you endure creation and destruction or face uncertainty in your life, know that rebirth awaits you.

\---

Why Change?

Wasn't the caterpillar beautiful enough?

Yes, it was.

Its new opportunity, as a butterfly,

Lies in its wings—to fly.

\---

What Are You Releasing?

In your Chrysalis, what dies and what is it that you are releasing? Your own transformation involves letting go of what no longer serves you. It is not an easy or a straightforward process. Once you have started letting go, space appears. You can refill the space with what was there before or allow it to fill, organically and creatively, with something new. Allowing the space to fill organically and creatively with something new is what you need to do if your own imaginal cells are to form. They need open space. Soon, your new imaginal cells will start building momentum. Your life starts to change. You have new insights. Your creativity flourishes. You are headed to the tipping point that creates your new self.

\---

Pumping, Pumping

The caterpillar is pumping

At a frantic pace.

Why? It does not know.

This is the energy of its Chrysalis.

It moves forward—

To what? It does not know.

\---

Getting Tired

Sometimes you may get tired on this journey. There is so much energy and effort expended to let go and to change. Often, the gains are not readily perceivable. You may wonder what you are doing, wandering through this new space, away from the world, as you once knew it.

When you get tired, you can acknowledge how you feel and then move on. You may take a rest or nurture yourself in some way. You can remind yourself that you embraced this new journey because the well-traveled road you had been on was not fulfilling anymore. You know there is more. The best way to rejuvenate is to create. An act of creation brings you energy and excitement, and you are no longer tired.

\---

The Release of Light

As you transform, your light is free to go out in the world. How can your light have been free before this within the many constraints of upbringing, conditioning and experience? In the breaking down, you release from these things. It is a creative destruction, of sorts. As the old breaks down, new imaginal cells form. These cells hold your light and know no constraint.

\---

How Does a Star Transform?

(A very layperson's explanation)

A star is formed in a huge cloud of dust and gas and immediately begins to contract. Then, by the force of its own gravity, it begins to stabilize and take shape. In its life cycle, there are many variations of fusion, release of energy and transformation. Stars die as they begin to collapse on themselves.

As in nature's Chrysalis, there is pressure, expansion, destruction, birth, death, and change in the life cycle of a star. There are so many clues and guides in nature for our own transformation. Can you think of other processes in nature that can inform your own transformation?

\---

Pivotal Points

In each transformation, there are pivotal points where you must proceed or risk not making it through the process. These points are not clearly defined. However, you may sense them as they appear. They are decision points. At these decision points, you have a choice. You can find explanations and self-justifications for not proceeding. In the extreme, you can fall asleep—turning back to your comfort zone and staying there. You can give in to fear. Or, you can acknowledge you are at a pivotal point and proceed.

Chrysalis takes place outside of your comfort zone. That is the place where true change can occur. Each time you grow, you leave your comfort zone and enter a new zone. There's adventure and excitement in that.

Stay aware for these pivotal points.

\---

Try this:

Think of a time in your life when you were scared, but you kept going.

What gave you the strength and courage to proceed? (You can use that again.)

What would have happened if you did not proceed?

How would your life be now?

\---

The Futility of Resistance

The caterpillar does not have a choice whether to enter Chrysalis or not. It is a process of nature. You have choice. You can never start, or you can resist progressing. Even though you have choice, resistance is futile. By resisting, you lose.

How do you lose? Humans are meant to grow and expand. If you resist transformation, either consciously or unconsciously, you regress. As you regress, you begin to go backwards. Growth is natural, and you are stopping that flow. You must deaden parts of yourself in order to block what is calling you.

Resistance does come easily during any kind of change. Underneath resistance is fear. The key is to recognize fear and learn how to break its grip. You may not even know that you are resisting. The small mind is very good at disguising fear as logic or subsuming it so deeply that you do not know it is there.

If resistance is futile, do you just push on? Yes and no. Part of the journey is learning how to recognize your resistance and overcome it. You grow in the process. Also, as humans, resistance is part of us. You are here to learn. By facing your resistance, you will see its futility and leave it behind.

\---

Resistance Can Harm You

As change beckons you,

Resisting may succeed

In slowing you down

For awhile.

This slowing down masks

The destructive force of resistance

That will harm, trick and defeat you.

\---

Death and Rebirth, Side By Side

It is pretty amazing that, within a cocoon, both death and birth are occurring side by side. Humans are used to a continuum, a rather long one at that—birth, life and then death. In nature's Chrysalis, death is fueling life. Destruction is fueling construction. Two processes are happening concurrently. Initially, one is trying to destroy the other. Without the caterpillar, the butterfly could not form. Within this process, destruction is an inherent element of creativity. Destruction creates energy.

Within your own Chrysalis, self-sabotage can turn up. You are moving into new territory in your life and then do something to halt your progress. Temporarily, this may cause the new aspects of your life to slow down.

One thing that is for sure is that your life is not what it used to be. You are in motion and cannot go back to what was in your life before. Something new is beckoning you.

How do you survive this destruction and creation, side by side? One of the first coping strategies is surrender. Surrender is not giving up control of your life. It is about acceptance. Recognizing that you are in the unknown and that growth and change are occurring. Then, you can create a context for what you are going through. It really is a about creating a story. The Hero's Journey, found in many ancient myths, is a story of transformation. Its stages are: the ordinary world, call to adventure, refusal of the call, tests, allies and enemies, the supreme ordeal, and return to the ordinary world.

Death and rebirth, side by side is quite a shift. They ask for strength, courage, imagination, and your very best self. Create your story as you experience death and rebirth.

\---

Try this:

Write a mythical tale or story about yourself. Write about your own growth and struggle or death and rebirth. The characters and places in your story can be magical beings, animals, plants, and places. Have fun with it! It will inform you about your life in a new way.

\---

Tipping Point

As imaginal cells multiply, they move toward a tipping point where the caterpillar is more its new self than its old self. Imaginal cells are small individual cells that, in multiplying, come together and create momentum. It is not a singular or big event that instantly transforms the caterpillar into a butterfly. Rather it is slow, steady progress, and then a point of "magic" is reached. In quantum physics, a quantum leap occurs when an electron "jumps" from one energy state to another. It appears abrupt. The electron reaches a point of magic.

In your own Chrysalis, that same tipping point is possible. Your journey of transformation includes both leaps and steadfast, slow movements and openings. When the leaps occur (a significant insight, a major growth experience, help from another), you know them. The slow, steady progress is less easily seen because you are operating largely in the unknown, not sure of how the process will unfold. If you keep going and maintain focus on your own personal development, leaps occur and you will see growth.

This makes trust and faith essential to your own Chrysalis. Just like the caterpillar, you know not where you go or what the future will be. There is no certainty. There are encouraging signs everywhere, if you allow yourself to see them—synchronicities, blessings, opportunities, good feelings, insights, and companionship.

You keep going and sense a purpose, encouraged by growth and positive signs and knowing you cannot go back. You also separate from who you were, opening so much possibility and leading to your tipping point.

\---

A Small Crack of Light

I want out!  
This is a prison  
Where I cannot sing my song

Wait, what is that?!  
My eyes are hurting

Look, some darkness went away  
Is something changing?

### Chapter Four

### The Butterfly

### ~ A New Existence~

Nature's Chrysalis: The Cocoon opens. When the butterfly comes out, its wings are damp and soft and folded against its body. The butterfly is very tired and it rests. Once the butterfly rests, it is ready to start flying. It begins to pump blood into its wings to get them working and flapping. Then it must learn to fly to find food. Once it can fly, it migrates and finds new habitats. Soon, it will find a mate and lay eggs, and the cycle begins anew.

Your Chrysalis: This is a time of emerging. You have transformed, and you bring your new self into the world. You may hesitate at first until you acclimate to this new way of being. Your unique voice is now revealed. You will have an impact in the world.

What's the Trigger?

The hormones of the butterfly are the trigger for its emergence from the cocoon.

In your own process of Chrysalis, what is the trigger? At one point, all you have experienced brings you to a place where the trigger clicks and you take your true self out into the world.

\---

Timing

Prior to emergence, the adult butterfly inside the cocoon is termed to be a "pharate." The transformation of the caterpillar is complete; however, it is still within the cocoon. It is "waiting" until the time is right. If the butterfly emerges too early, it will not be able to fly or to survive. What a dangerous time. And it comes at the end of such change and struggle.

Right timing is critical. The waiting can be hard to endure. You may be anxious to emerge; however, that could be dangerous, just as with the butterfly. How do you know the right timing? You know by staying close to your inner self and in the present moment—not bolting forward due to impatience or anxiety or anything else. Allow the process to complete and take its course, even though the steps and timing may be unknown to you.

\---

Splitting the Cocoon

So, after all the growth and struggle,

More to do.

Exert tremendous effort, and break the cocoon

That has held you safe for a while now.

You are moving into a place that you do not know.

In a brand new persona,

You just go

And let the energy move you.

You are free!

\---

What Does the Butterfly Leave Behind?

An exoskeleton is a skeleton formed outside the body. When the butterfly emerges, it leaves its exoskeleton behind. That exoskeleton protected the butterfly during an extremely vulnerable period, as the caterpillar broke down and the butterfly formed. Transformation is complete, and the protection is no longer needed. The butterfly is strong and free.

What is the exoskeleton that you leave behind in your own Chrysalis? What "protects" you as you transform? When you say "yes" to the journey of transformation, you put yourself on a path that is protected. This protection is not safety or security but rather is giving you what you need to continue. The bottom does not fall out from under you as long as you continue. Your trust in this protection leads you forward.

\---

Emergence

"Who are you?" said the caterpillar. "I hardly know, Sir, just at present—at least I know who I was when I got up this morning, but I think I must have been changed several times since then." – Alice in Wonderland, Lewis Carroll

It is hard to imagine what it is like as the butterfly emerges. As an insect, it moves naturally within nature's process of Chrysalis. In your own Chrysalis, how do you feel when it is clear you have transformed into a new person? Are you excited? Uncertain? Joyful?

\---

Try This:

Imagine yourself making a change that you dream of.

Then, imagine yourself just after the change has happened.

You come back to your family and friends.

Tell them who you are, what the experience of change was like

And how you are different now.

\---

The Storm

"When you come out of the storm, you won't be the same person that walked in. That's what the storm is all about."– Haruki Murakami

Thinking of Chrysalis as a storm makes sense. There's destruction, force, upset, challenge. You have to be strong, courageous and enduring to make it through. As you come out of the storm, into the calm, you bring what you have gained from your experience.

\---

THE DANCE OF THE BUTTERFLY

Johnny is a red fox who lives in a wooded glen. He has a dilemma. Johnny knows that his ability to camouflage and stay hidden is important to his survival. He loves his family and wants to fit in. But, there is a part of him that yearns to be free and to be seen. He wants to dance and stretch beyond his family's territory and see what is possible for him, to go beyond the world he knows now. He no longer wants to stay hidden.

His parents and friends think his dreams are foolish and dangerous and ask him why he is not happy with what he has. Johnny answers that he loves his life, but something else is calling him. He is not sure what to do.

One day, Johnny is on his own, hunting for food. He sees a butterfly alight on a flower and then fly away, making circles in the air. He thinks about how free the butterfly appears to be. He wonders if he should just leave now and cross the boundaries of his family's territory and make it on his own. He thinks about it and wonders if, indeed, he is being foolish.

The next day he is hunting and sees a butterfly again. It is quietly sitting on a branch, its wings folded. Johnny sits for a while and watches the butterfly, dreaming of adventures. Where does his desire for adventure come from, he wonders?

Johnny thinks about the dance of the butterfly. A butterfly is so light and agile and has so much beauty. He is happy to be a fox, but he envies the butterfly. He wants to make a plan for his own adventure. Johnny knows that caterpillars become butterflies and cannot imagine how that is possible. Foxes eat caterpillars! They crawl on the ground and never can fly. How can such a transformation happen?

One afternoon, Johnny falls asleep inside a tree. He dreams of being a butterfly and of traveling the world. It is a beautiful dream. He flies to distant lands, seeing so many landscapes and animals. One night, he encounters a storm. The storm tosses him around mercilessly. He has to find shelter. The ferocity of the storm surprises and scares him. He is so vulnerable. When he awakens from the dream, he wonders if his adventures would lead him to a storm.

Johnny thinks about the butterfly. Foxes do not fly or migrate. They live a very different existence. Perhaps there is nothing for Johnny to learn from butterflies. What is this feeling he has for freedom and adventure?

One day, Johnny is resting in a glen, and a butterfly comes close to him. Johnny watches the butterfly. Its flight is a dance, a dance of its very own. He thinks about the butterfly's transformation from being a caterpillar and is in wonder at its magic. Johnny studies its dance. He knows the butterfly's dance is not something he can do. What would his dance be? What magic can occur in his life?

Johnny has an idea. He can become the leader of his den! That would be an adventure and give him freedom! How can he do it? He decides to venture out of his territory and observe a neighboring den. First, he has to prepare to leave his territory. He must find a way to stay safe and not be seen. Johnny is good at camouflage and is not worried. He also knows he is clever and will be able to make this journey. He will leave tomorrow.

The next morning, Johnny wakes up and quietly leaves his territory. He travels along the creek, staying close to the trees. When he gets close to the neighboring den of foxes, he lies under a pile of leaves, so he is not seen. He observes the foxes as they hunt and play. Suddenly, he sees two of the foxes rise on their hind legs and begin to tussle. Johnny soon realizes that they are fighting to establish their leadership of the den. One of the foxes is dominant and becomes the leader.

Johnny is moved by this transformation. The one fox woke up this morning as a member of the den and is now its leader.

Johnny begins his journey home along the creek, staying hidden and avoiding danger. As he enters his territory, he begins to plan how he will become den leader. It may take some time. Soon, he has a strategy. He begins to build his strength as a hunter and protector. Life is now an adventure. He has a purpose. Johnny thinks about what it will be like to be leader of the den. He will have freedom to lead the other foxes, and he will grow.

The day comes. Johnny has challenged another fox to become leader. He is ready. He has trained and is strong. He also is cunning and knows how he will win.

Johnny prevails and now is leader of the den. As the sun sets, he sits by a tree and sees a butterfly. It comes very close to him and begins its dance. Johnny realizes that he has transformed. He has his own dance, and he is free!

THE END

\---

How Has the Caterpillar's Life Changed?

The caterpillar changes profoundly in its transformation to a butterfly. It starts out close to the ground, has twelve eyes, six legs, produces silk, and moves in a back and forth motion. A butterfly has two pairs of wings to fly, two main eyes and many small eyes, four legs and two antennae. It feeds on the nectar of flowers. The butterfly has a huge territory, can fly hundreds of miles and has a lightness of being.

In your own Chrysalis, many of the changes you experience are on the inside—energetic, emotional and mental. You may change your entire point of view about the world. Outwardly, your health and physical well-being can improve. You can be calmer and more at peace. The way others affect you and the way you affect others can change. The transformation that occurs in your Chrysalis is no less extraordinary than the caterpillar's. The most important transformation is that you are 100 percent you.

\---

To What Purpose?

To what purpose does the caterpillar transform into a butterfly or do you experience your own transformation? Do you need to unravel this mystery or can you simply allow its existence? Your mind excels at reasoning. The mind explains your world, and when it can't, alarms go off. It can be challenging to go beyond your mind and into the mystery.

It may be that the ultimate purpose of your seeking and transformation will remain hidden. However, something pushes you on to finding deeper meaning and fulfillment. Perhaps if you let go of your need to understand, new worlds can open to you and purposes will become clear.

\---

The Whole Journey

Once the butterfly emerges, it mates fairly quickly and lives a relatively short life. The butterfly emerges with wings and full beauty and in six to nine months mates and dies. Why so short a life?

Uh oh! What does that mean for your own Chrysalis? The time you have as a human is longer, granted. What about this? Are you doomed to die in a short period of time; is your emergence short-lived?

The butterfly's full life span from caterpillar to butterfly is a complex and varied journey. The butterfly's life does not begin with its emergence. The butterfly's life begins as a caterpillar. Duh!

The butterfly is a mirror for your own Chrysalis, and there are truths here for you. Chrysalis is a transformation—a change from what was to something new. Your journey in life has stages, just as the caterpillar's does. Movement among these stages fuels your Chrysalis. Your journey is a long one, and each stage is honorable and dependent on the stage before it.

Emerging in your full beauty is something to look forward to. On the way you can embrace the beauty of each stage and enjoy the ride.

\---

Imagination

Your focus may be too much on what you want to become. Your imagination may not be serving you as you imagine great things, then wake up each day measuring your reality against your imagined life. You could end up feeling small in comparison. Instead, live each step of the journey well. Keep your imagination alive, and see your dreams as your future.

\---

As You Emerge

What happens as you emerge from your own Chrysalis? Do you realize that you have transformed? You see many changes. You know you have grown.

\---

Allowing the World to See You

As you emerge, you may sense a pull, leading you to your next steps. It is difficult, after the solitude and quiet of your Chrysalis, to find yourself in the world again. Perhaps you will know your transformation is complete as you observe your new relationship with the world.

You may sense a new purpose, or you may just "be" in the world. Your gift for the world is a unique one. Perhaps, you will stay in solitude. Or, you may engage with the world and be seen.

Remaining true to yourself and centered in your being is essential. All that you have gone through must be honored, and there is no going back.

\---

Try This:

Identify a person (famous or not) who you think is living their purpose. What are your reasons for choosing them?

\---

Freedom Visualization

It is fun to imagine the butterfly's first flight. Its vantage point is completely new...from life as a caterpillar to the cocoon with its silence, darkness and solitude to flight. Wow.

The definition of freedom is the power or right to act, speak or think as one wants to without hindrance or restraint. What is the freedom you yearn for? In your yearning is a key to your transformation. Follow that yearning; make your freedom real.

Here's a visualization to help you find the freedom you yearn for (available in audio form on <http://www.annvanino.com/books>).

Find a quiet, comfortable place to sit or lie down. Take a moment to relax. Start with your toes. Wiggle them a bit; let your feet be still. Let calming energy move up your legs, through your torso. The calming energy moves into your chest and neck—relax them. Allow the energy to relax your face and mind. Just "be" for a while. You are ready. Feel the peace in your body and mind.

You are standing in a beautiful meadow of wildflowers. The smell of the wildflowers fills you. There are mountains in the distance and a beautiful blue green lake ahead of you. The color around you is dazzling. The sun is warm and bright. You hear the sounds of bird songs and feel a gentle wind moving through the trees. You are surrounded with the splendor of our world.

You see a figure in the distance, walking towards you. It is a young boy, dressed simply in a multi-colored shirt and pants made of lightweight wool. He is barefoot, and he is carrying something. As he gets closer to you, he introduces himself and says his name is Devon. He asks you to sit with him and lays out a blanket of many colors. As you sit, the sun feels warm and a gentle breeze caresses you. You are at peace with this magical boy.

Devon says he has a gift for you. He has come to help you find your purpose in the world. You feel excitement and anticipation. First, Devon says to find your purpose you must create freedom. The gift he has for you will help you do that.

Devon picks up the box he is holding and hands it to you. The box has an important key to your freedom. He invites you to open it. Take a moment to open the box and see what is inside. Take some time.

Devon asks you to take what is in the box for you and use it to guide your first steps towards your freedom. He is happy for you and curious. What is the first step you will take towards your freedom? You tell him.

As Devon stands to leave, you thank him for the gift, giving him a gift of your own. You take the box he gave you and begin to walk towards your freedom with a happy heart.

Take a moment to bring yourself back into the world. Think about what you just imagined. What was the key to finding your freedom? Will you follow it? If the key was not in your box, what has the experience of this visualization given to you? Honor the experience, and start the path to your freedom.

\---

Inner Stillness as You Fly

In its migration, the butterfly travels long distances in the air. There are wind currents and new experiences. The butterfly knows its path innately. Amazing.

Is the point of Chrysalis to create an inner stillness that mirrors the heavens? Is it the development of an outer beauty as well? Your transformation has expanded your vision and abilities. You are lighter, no longer carrying the burdens you once knew. Your struggle and solitude have brought strength and understanding. You can live in the present moment and see others with compassion.

With Chrysalis comes the gaining of wisdom. You have experienced and completed a process that others do not even know exists. You had to find it because it is hidden in our society. Ancient, and some modern, cultures built their stories and mythologies around this journey to wisdom and the passages of human life. Their stories offer guidance for the journey to wisdom, that all can follow. Their elders, who have found this wisdom, are revered.

Your transformation can have profound effects as you touch others. You are an imaginal cell, creating a new standard. Your new inner stillness is seen and experienced by others. Within your stillness, the path ahead is seen. You trust your intuition to guide you. The people you meet are meant to be there. Your experiences, both easy and challenging ones, create more imaginal cells for the world. Your journey continues, and you impact the world around you.

\---

What If You Turn Away?

The process of Chrysalis can be daunting. What if you turn away from your Chrysalis? There will be reminders and invitations that beckon you back. The only way to ignore them is to fall asleep. How do you fall asleep? There are many ways. You can fall into negative reactions to the events of your life—anger, resentment or bitterness. You can fall into complacency, seeing life as routine, without much to offer you. You can give up on growth. The biggest factor in falling asleep is fear. It is natural to fear the unknown, and Chrysalis requires commitment and strength. Fear must be faced. It may ride along side by side with you, or it may be overcome.

\---

Why This Process of Chrysalis?

Why this process of Chrysalis? Perhaps, it propels your growth. Although it involves great destruction, the destruction is not complete. Rather, the destruction fuels reconstruction and you transform. The cumulative effects of your Chrysalis can be magnificent.

\---

Vantage Point

It is beautiful here  
You have lifted  
You see the world anew

The meaning of your life  
Is to be in the world  
Bringing light and wisdom and love

Compassion for all  
Kindness always  
Clear vision

Chrysalis  
Is complete

### Chapter Five

### Our Collective Chrysalis

### ~ The Transformation of the World ~

We are experiencing a Collective Chrysalis in the world: the breaking down of old systems and the birth of new ones. We have attached the silk button and are in the cocoon, experiencing simultaneous creation and destruction. Some conjecture that we will not survive; others have hope and see a new beginning.

As change unsettles us, fear rises. We are in the unknown. It is natural to look for safety. Some find safety by embracing change and what may come. Others hold on to what was or focus together and blame a common enemy.

We can use the process of Chrysalis as a context for the transformation the world is experiencing. It can help us to recognize the alchemy of death and rebirth and steer our efforts towards positive change.

Here are some thoughts on our Collective Chrysalis.

Systems Breaking Down

The ways we have lived for centuries, as a human race, are breaking down. There are many catalysts: the growth of technology, a rapidly rising population, the increasing interconnectedness of the world, and new social structures.

How is this breakdown manifesting in our world? Here are a few examples.

Global Economies Are Vulnerable

Risks and uncertainties are rampant in both developed and developing countries. There is continuing uncertainty in the banking systems of developed countries and in the debt held by developing countries. Geopolitical tensions in Asia and the Middle East produce further economic risks. The nature of work is changing with automation and outsourcing of labor—leading, in some countries, to dislocation and unemployment. Increasingly, a full day's work can still leave families in poverty—including in developed countries. There is a growing movement to build new economic systems reflecting a triple bottom line—social, environmental and financial. Some go further and advocate creating alternative economies.

Polarity and Gridlock

Polarity has many faces across the globe: political parties are notably uncooperative with each other, terrorism is an enemy that thrives on uncertainty and is often hard to find, tensions are rising among rich and poor, antagonism among religions leads to conflict, and new tensions rise as precious resources are depleted and some countries rush to hoard them. Global interdependence is growing; however, we are having trouble recognizing that interdependence. Some say that we are at a dangerous standstill.

Our Natural Environment Is Straining

Butterflies themselves are in crisis. Monarch populations have plunged. For centuries, billions of monarch butterflies have migrated in winter from Canada and the United States to Mexico and returned in spring. Over the past few years, fewer and fewer butterflies have survived the 2,500-mile-plus migration.  National Geographic reports that in 2013, monarchs roosted in just 1.65 acres of forest, down 44 percent from 2.76 acres in 2012. And both of those figures are down substantially from peak levels in 1996, when the butterflies occupied nearly forty-five acres of forest. Reasons given for this include habitat loss, extreme weather and agricultural pesticide exposure. We have depleted oil reserves and are going deeper and deeper into the earth to find oil and gas, using controversial methods of extraction. Our industrial processes continue to contribute to the pollution of land, air and water, despite many attempts to prevent this pollution.

As systems break down, there is fear. Humans deal with fear in a multitude of ways—anger, flight, avoidance, creating community, courage. There is also denial—those having strong self-interest in systems staying as they are, do all they can to deny the breakdown and keep the systems going. This creates a volatile environment. There are accusations, retrenchment, division, and subterfuge leading to chaos and irrational actions.

As humans, we tend not to see destruction as a precursor to creation, as it is in nature's process of Chrysalis. We see destruction as a negative force, taking away things we cherish. Perhaps we can change this view. To do so requires us to accept the unknown and to endure the process. That's not how we have set up our societies or our psyches, have we?

If we look back at history, systems have broken down many times, and subsequently, new ones were created. Here are a few historic examples of systems breaking down and what was created in their place.

The Neanderthal Extinction

The Neanderthals populated parts of Asia and Europe for hundreds of thousands of years and existed until about 24,000 years ago. They lived in caves and are credited with being first to use fire, first to have a spoken language and first to make stone tools. There is controversy around the fate of the Neanderthals. Some say they gradually assimilated into modern man, others that they experienced a true extinction. Their successors were called Cro Magnon, considered the first of modern humans. Cro Magnon people were characterized as having an evolved skeletal structure including a larger brain, advanced speech capabilities and more cultural sophistication.

The Decline of the Roman Empire

We often hear of the breaking down of the once magnificent and powerful Roman Empire. Historians tell tales of debauchery, loss of territory, disease and plague, and declining population. The Roman Empire reached its peak in the second century. The decline was slow, lasting until the fifth century. Some say the Roman Empire fell due to its a faulty political and economic systems. As the decline progressed, Romans endured multiple invasions and war. Imagine what it was like to experience a breakdown over centuries. The decline of the Roman Empire led eventually to the Middle Ages and establishment of feudalism. Feudal society was self-sufficient and local. The concept of Chivalry was introduced, contrasting with tribal warrior cultures of the past. From the eastern Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire emerged, characterized by territorial expansion and creation of a powerful economic, military and cultural force in Europe.

The Industrial Revolution

The Industrial Revolution was a time when primarily agrarian societies in Europe and America transformed to manufacturing and urban societies. Rural and farm life did not go away but did lose its primacy in many areas. As the agrarian societies broke down, there was fear and worry about the loss of the rural lifestyle. In these times, one could see the future optimistically in new and improved systems and standards of living or pessimistically in the often-grim circumstances of the poor and working class in industrial societies. The Industrial Revolution brought the creation of the middle class, scientific innovations and technological improvements that led to the advancement of agriculture, industry, shipping, and trade and to the expansion of the economy, higher productivity and longer life spans.

So, we have a human history of systems breaking down and the subsequent evolution of new systems. Can we look at what is happening in our world today as leading to new possibilities? Can we accept the destruction we are witnessing as a precursor to the creation of new systems and embrace our Collective Chrysalis?

How We Can Thrive

As systems break down around us, how can we flourish? In nature, the caterpillar is programmed to go through the process of Chrysalis. The end result, if all goes well, is that the caterpillar becomes a butterfly. Our Collective Chrysalis is not programmed as nature's Chrysalis is. Here are some thoughts on thriving through the change and transformation of our Collective Chrysalis.

Starting From the Present Moment

Our best vantage point is from the present moment. Change disrupts and can throw us back to the past or into the future. The past is over and the future is not here yet. The present is what we have. If we bring ourselves to the present moment, we can get in touch with our thoughts and emotions and what is actually happening.

From the present moment, we can assess the effects that change is having on our lives and how we are responding. We can accept that change is present in our world and that destruction and construction are occurring concurrently. We can acknowledge the instability of change and our discomfort with it. We can honor loss and welcome creation.

From the present moment, we are in the strongest position to act and respond. It is the best place to live during our Collective Chrysalis.

Allowing

Allowing is surrender, in the most positive sense of the word. Allowing accepts our vulnerability, acknowledges what is beyond our control and recognizes the presence of change.

Through allowing, we protect ourselves from damaging illusions, futile resistance, unnecessary sacrifice and depleting ourselves physically, mentally or emotionally. We also acknowledge that destruction and creation are occurring side by side.

Seeing Opportunity In the Unknown

When systems begin breaking down, we are face-to-face with the unknown. Both uncertainty and opportunity lie within the unknown. Why not choose to find the opportunities that exist within our Collective Chrysalis? Polarity, fear, resistance, and opposition weaken us. Finding opportunity in the unknown requires courage and strength. Developing that courage and strength, fuels our transformation.

There is an inevitability to change. The sooner we accept its presence, the sooner we can see its opportunities.

Daydreaming!

As we look into the unknown, we can daydream about what is possible. Daydreaming has power. It can shape our thoughts and open our hearts to wonderful possibilities. The unknown is a void. We cannot fill it with certainties, so why try?

Try daydreaming as an antidote to fear. Let your daydreams wander. They can lead to innovation, creativity and possibility.

Co-Creating

We can thrive by proactively encouraging co-creation. We can ask ourselves what we want to create. Are we clear and ready for the new? Are there old preconceptions that no longer serve us and that we can let go of?

As we unburden ourselves of the past, we come together with others to create. We will thrive as long as we keep free of drama, ego and hierarchy. We can come together for short times or long ones. We will be in a flow and will propel ourselves into the new.

Finding Our Bliss

We can thrive by finding our bliss. What does each one of us love and feel passionate about? Now is the time to pursue our individual passions. That is our best contribution to society. In pursuing our passions, we can co-create new systems with others. We each become imaginal cells when we follow our destinies.

Vigilance and Self-Protection

Danger can be present in the chaos of systems breaking down and new systems forming. There is a need for vigilance and self-protection. This requires self-management—staying centered, aware and balanced and taking care of ourselves physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

Becoming Imaginal Cells

In our Collective Chrysalis, imaginal cells are the people, organizations and societal forces that promote and create positive change and transformation in the world. Imaginal cells are our innovators, providing the fuel for our Collective Chrysalis. We can nurture imaginal cells by promoting open space for all to create, overcoming our fear of change, creating an environment of increasing interconnectedness and transparency and giving imaginal cells both a context and a role in our world.

Can we all be imaginal cells? Yes. It is a journey available to every one of us—a journey of freedom, creativity, trust, and courage. We do not look to leaders for our answers; we look within. We source our own creativity and highly value freedom. We look to the new and see possibilities, not barriers. We champion human rights and the empowerment of the individual. We feel the winds of change and use their energy for our creations. We have the courage to venture into the unknown and the discipline to follow through.

Imaginal cells have already given us global communication, faster means of travel, space exploration, scientific breakthroughs, profound spiritual insights and pathways, new organizing structures, and greater understanding of the human psyche. These creations can be built on as we begin our work. We accept that imaginal cells are of many varieties, and we move organically to create our Collective Chrysalis. We are tolerant and value diversity, knowing it is necessary to our evolution. Amidst diversity, we work in harmony and, sometimes, in chaos. We know that chaos fuels creativity, and it is not feared.

Imaginal cells are everywhere in our world. We sometimes recognize each other across the oceans and, sometimes, stay secluded in small locales. We are united as our work ripples out and connects to that of others. People learn of our work in many different ways and build on it. How do we multiply and become cohesive as the imaginal cells in nature's Chrysalis do? It is an organic process. Structures form naturally as imaginal cells build momentum and connect to each other. As imaginal cells, we may not be the famous or be the visible leaders who build the world we live in. We may emerge collectively and spontaneously when there are enough of us and when the world is ready for what we bring.

As imaginal cells we live side by side with those who do not want change. We must maintain our freedom and know that we are not in danger of being destroyed, even as the old crumbles around us. In some ways, we must disconnect from what is crumbling so that we can create. Simultaneously, we must stay acutely aware of what is happening around us and be savvy to the ways of the world so that we can operate effectively within it.

What dangers do we face as imaginal cells? We face others' fear that we are different and are creating change they may not want. We face the destructive effects of the polarity that our Collective Chrysalis has generated. We face the challenges and unknowns of taking a path never taken before. We face unexpected and unintended consequences that arise even from our good intentions. We risk being shunned by others, who are not ready for our inventions and breakthroughs.

As imaginal cells, we are deeply connected to our inner selves. This is the source of our inspiration and our wisdom. We nurture this connection within and rely on it. We are connected to the greater humanity and feel a sense of community with others. We are the force that fuels our Collective Chrysalis and brings the world into a positive future.

Reaching a Tipping Point

Our movement towards a tipping point cannot be prescribed; it will unfold. Those creating momentum and change find opportunities to cluster with other imaginal cells.

Until we reach a tipping point in our Collective Chrysalis, there will be chaos, uncertainty, pain, and destruction. There will also be hope, transformation, excitement, and resurrection. That's quite a soup to live in. We will have to keep our focus on creation even while experiencing destruction all around us.

The cocoon envelops the caterpillar in its transformation and there is safety. In our Collective Chrysalis, it is the unknown that envelops us. For us, there is no immediate safety. It is only by our acceptance of the unknown and release of fear that safety is found and our transformation can flourish. It is a lot to ask of us. However, in order to propel our Collective Chrysalis, we must be empowered humans and rise to a higher state.

It is imperative that we support the imaginal cells in our midst. If we want our Collective Chrysalis to thrive, imaginal cells must multiply so that they can create the tipping point of our Collective Chrysalis.

The caterpillar does not become a butterfly in a linear way. Through destruction and chaos, pain and creation, the butterfly emerges. Our Collective Chrysalis may move similarly. Do you know the term quantum leap? In quantum physics, a quantum leap is (in simple terms) when an electron "jumps" abruptly from one state to another. The movement is instant. The electron is in one state and then is in another one. The electron does not seem to travel the space in between. We may reach the tipping point of our Collective Chrysalis in a similar way. We are in one state and then will find ourselves, unexplainably, in another.

Love and the Cosmos

We are moving towards a world that we cannot now imagine. What clues to our destination do Love and the Cosmos hold? The Cosmos is both within and without us. Do you know the Beatles song Within You, Without You? The last verse says:

When you've seen beyond yourself  
Then you may find peace of mind is waiting there  
And the time will come when you see we're all one  
And life goes on within you and without you

The Cosmos provides a bigger context for our Collective Chrysalis. We are moving beyond our current existence and expanding into something new. We let go of the illusion of separation from each other. We let go of hierarchy and dominance over others, and we move towards harmony, a sense of ourselves as a collective and, eventually, oneness within the Cosmos.

What about love? We give love so many meanings. What clues to our destination does love hold? The Beatles sang that love is all you need. Love is the mystery, the energy that runs through all that is. So many of us want love and pursue it at great cost. It may be that the way to find love is by first connecting with the love that lies within us. Self-love recognizes and seeks the genuine love of others and sees love not as weakness, but as power.

The need for love in our world is great. Many yearn for it. The presence of fear and greed counter the presence of love. We can begin to unravel the hold that fear and greed have in the world if we create conditions for individuals to nurture their own power within and love themselves. As fear and greed unravel, love's presence will be more evident and will fuel our Collective Chrysalis.

The Dark, She Was Dying  
Leaving With Every Step  
Her Cape Unfurls.....  
She Is The Light

### Postscript

### ~Transformation From the Inside Out ~

As I wrote Chrysalis, I wondered about the deeper meaning of its subtitle "transformation from the inside out." In nature's Chrysalis, the caterpillar lives in its ordinary world until it spins its silk button. Then, the caterpillar enters the cocoon and stays there during its Chrysalis. The caterpillar has this space and silence within which to break down and transform. Once transformation is complete, the butterfly emerges to the outside world.

It is similar for us in some ways but not in others. Our early lives are spent in our ordinary world, focused on meeting our physical needs, following the structure and values of our societies, creating a path in the physical world, and creating connections with others. Then, at a later point in life, some of us start searching for meaning and look within. At this point, we enter a space of transformation. We have to release (break down) our conditionings and the knowledge we have accumulated in order to see and hear what lies within. While we do this, however, we still exist in the outside world, moving between the two—inside and outside. In this movement, there is transformation.

It is not an easy task, going within after focusing for years on the outer world. Many of us may have already focused within in our lives, and it is not a new place for us. This time, however, it is both looking within and transforming within in order to develop the strength and character to join our inner and outer selves and emerge as new.

In contrast, the world's indigenous cultures see outside and inside as interconnected from the start of life. Interdependency is assumed. There is a natural flow between them. They exist side by side and each world informs the other. The beauty of the outer world inspires and this inspiration is brought within. By focusing within, ways to function in the outside world are found.

What does it mean to transform from the inside out, and how does this inform our individual and Collective Chrysalis'? My musings took several directions. Here are some of them.

The Still Point Within

In the midst of a storm lies a still point, as in the eye of a hurricane. Within each one of us, also lies a still point. It holds our wisdom and is our center place. Outside, swirls the storm of our lives—activity, distraction, judgment, expectations, people, and purpose. In the midst of this storm isn't the still point the best place from which to live our lives? In our still point lies calm and peace.

Within the still point lies our compass. It is where our true essence lives, unfettered. In our still point, we find clarity. When our emotions unsettle us, we can bring them to our still point within, be with them and sort through them on our own. From within, we know ourselves better, are free from interference and can regain our center. In our individual and collective Chrysalis, only the still point can guide us. We transform from the inside out.

Our still point must be cultivated. First, we find it: through silence, prayer, meditation, or other means. Then we acclimate: getting used to silence and mystery. We must visit our still point often and allow it to guide our lives. Our still point brings us to other dimensions of ourselves that are limitless.

Much works against this journey to our still point. There is endless chatter within and without. Within, most of it comes from our minds in the form of runaway thoughts, anxiety, fear, or worry. Without, our senses are bombarded with information, stimulation, talking—it is endless. How do we turn it off? That's where the challenge lies—in quieting ourselves within and without. We can each find what works for us. Here are some starting points: twenty minutes of silence at the beginning or end of our day; turning off the radio, television, computer at home, in our cars or at work for periods of quiet; creating breaks where we relax and enjoy ourselves, at least a few times each day; consciously creating balance in our lives, including time for what we love; and developing our intuitions so our voices and creations can come from the inside out.

During our Chrysalis, aspects of our lives begin to fall away. Our still point then becomes a larger part of us. Solitude is more comfortable. Inside and outside begin to merge. It is a process of becoming unified within ourselves and of becoming whole.

In our Collective Chrysalis, the world needs the best of us. The best of us is our whole selves, inside and out. As we each move from our still points, imagine what it will be to come together collectively. My guess is that we will experience a very new, collaborative energy with much less drama, conflict, judgment, and discord. Why? Because we will each know our truth and be clear on where and who we are meant to be.

In our Collective Chrysalis, we can bring the peace of our still points into the physical world. What an image that is—a world of peace, wisdom and clarity. This is the transformation. Rather than trying to find these things in the outside world, we bring them from the inside out—each of us loving ourselves, transforming ourselves and bringing our gifts to the world. Transformation from the inside out!

As our still point radiates outward, our ways change in the world. We know what we want to do. We know how to access our inner wisdom. We change our own energy for the better, and our new energy touches others. The dissonance of separation, stress and confusion eases for us. People start seeing our peace and may be inspired to start their own journey within. Our inner focus moves outward.

Our still points evolve and are ever changing. They continue to guide us as we grow. We can count on our still points once we access them. Inner wisdom is the fuel of our transformation and soon joins with that of others in our Collective Chrysalis.

We cultivate our still points by staying in touch with them. We must keep our energy clear. Our mind, emotions and stress are still part of us. We bring them inside and sort through them. This rhythm of outside in and inside out becomes natural for us and creates stability.

What about forces of darkness? They are present; however, they are old more than they are dark at this point. The old is giving way to the new. The caterpillar breaks down, so the butterfly can form. That energy fuels the caterpillar's transformation. The resistance of the old meets the energy of the new. I ended the last chapter with this verse:

The Dark, She Was Dying  
Leaving With Every Step  
Her Cape Unfurls...  
She Is The Light

We are moving in a positive direction. It is necessary for us to ride this energy of old and new, each struggling for their place. This struggle fuels our transformation.

Within the still point lies our true power. Power gained from the outside world is temporary and subject to so many influences. Power gained from within is solid as a rock. It will never go away. Our Collective Chrysalis demands our power from within. It is a daunting task, but it is achievable. Our inner power will help us deal with challenges that come during the stages of our Collective Chrysalis.

As we find our still points, we can help others do the same. Everyone is needed. There will be many variations of the journey to our still points. Individuals will have their unique starting points and challenges. We can tell others of our own journeys and how we feel within our still points. We can support others as they endure challenges, doubts and breakthroughs. We can talk, write, perform, create, collaborate, and collectively focus on the still point within, making it present and visible.

Only from the still point within comes our originality and uniqueness. The still point within is the center of our individual and Collective Chrysalis. Let's honor it.

The Primacy Of Love

Love comes from within and fuels our Chrysalis as we transform from the inside out. How can we honor the primacy of love?

We must love ourselves. This is no small undertaking. So much in our lives hinders self-love. We can nurture self-love by healing our hurts, forgiving ourselves and others and affirming what makes us happy and gives us joy. This does not have to be complicated or time-intensive. Self-love requires our intention, commitment and willingness to change.

We must look within for love. Our Chrysalis is a transformation from the inside out. Self-love enables us to love others. So many of us look for approval from others, instead of from ourselves. The only approval we need is our own. Each of our destinies is unique and can only be discovered by us. This is the adventure and the fun of our transformation.

We must balance our minds and hearts. Our minds want to rule. The heart has a lot to teach us and is where our true power lies. As we balance the mind and heart, we can circulate love throughout our being.

We must find the places where we can express our love and put it into action. As we begin to practice self-love, we may come up against situations that require boundaries. Setting boundaries helps us find those places where our love can flow.

We must practice kindness—towards ourselves and others. Kindness is a precursor to love. Practicing kindness affirms the worth of each individual. Kindness comes from the heart. Social media is filled with stories of kindness. These stories hearten us and raise us up. Practicing kindness, in our everyday lives, gives us so much more.

We must overcome fear. Fear is the basis of so much pain in the world. This is not a simple task. It involves creating safety for each individual, and for many, this may be a long and sometimes scary road to travel. That's okay; lets get started. Without fear, self-love can grow and our individual Chrysalis will fuel our Collective Chrysalis. We know that love can conquer fear. There are many examples to inform us.

If love is to be primary, war and violence have to go. We can no longer see war and violence as basic human nature and inevitable. Yes, war is entrenched in our history and psyches, but it does not have to remain so. So much has been done to develop non-violent means of communication and dispute resolution. War and violence are choices that we do not have to make. As we look at the causes of war, we see greed and intolerance. This can transform as love becomes primary.

As we love ourselves, the need and motivation for war will diminish. This means self-love in all of us, as those who do not love themselves will continue to instigate war. War is often about dominance over others. If we love ourselves, this need for dominance will unravel. With self-love, there is the possibility of true harmony. Many are already working towards this, encouraging peaceful means of dispute resolution and restorative justice and using our voices to promote non-violence.

We can find other outlets for aggression. We must recognize that deep hurt, anger, fear, and self-loathing are often at the root of aggression and address this with compassion, forgiveness and strong intent. The build-up of aggressive energy can be stopped before it is expressed by finding other means of releasing this energy. There must be physical, mental and emotional outlets to ward off violence and hate. As we love, these roots will diminish. We must protect our children so that loving roots can grow. Somehow, we must find a way to convince others that ending war and violence is possible. We can bring our creativity, hearts and intellects to this task.

Is it possible for us to love our differences and heal our communal hurts? As we learn to love ourselves, it will be. With our global communication systems and economies, diversity is now the norm. We are in closer proximity with each other and many are realizing that our commonalities dwarf our differences. We must continue to find ways to bring people together. We must actively listen to grievances and promote ways to address them. Each person, no exceptions, must be given respect and dignity. Those who choose to divide humanity must be accountable for their choices.

What is the opposite of love? Elie Wiesel said "The opposite of love is not hate; it's indifference." For love to be primary, we must act. Each of us can do so in our own way. There will be so much meaning and positive energy in our actions. We will feel good about what we are doing and ideas will spread. Here again, are the imaginal cells of transformation—spreading love.

With love so much is possible. As we love ourselves, we will find ourselves loving others. Love will spread, and the world will feel it. Polarity will diminish, and tolerance will grow. With self-love, happiness and joy will increase. So many of the world religions center their beliefs on the primacy of love. We can do this.

Let's make it real and attain the primacy of love in our lives and in our world. There is wisdom in the phrase "All you need is love." Lets believe it!

Our True Connection With the Cosmos

There is no separation. We are all one. Our connection to the Cosmos is total—we are part of it and it is part of us. One element of our transformation from the inside out is seeing ourselves and our planet as a small part of a much larger whole; accepting that mystery surrounds us and we do not have all the answers; realizing that beauty and the Cosmos are synonymous and that beauty must not be destroyed; and understanding that creation and destruction are ever-present in the Cosmos and in our lives.

Neil de Grasse Tyson of The Hayden Planetarium said, "Our molecules are traceable to stars that exploded and spread these elements across the galaxy. If you see the universe as something you participate in—as this great unfolding of a cosmic story—that, I think should make you feel large, not small.... Any astrophysicist does not feel small looking up in the universe; we feel large." If we are made of the same elements in the Cosmos, what does this mean? There really is no separation. Inside and out are the same at every level.

There is natural order to the Cosmos as well as chaos and unpredictability. This dual presence of chaos and order shows us that we are ever changing and do not exist in a static state. Our lives are a balancing act between chaos and order, change and stability.

With a sense of ourselves as part of a larger whole, we can reach higher. When you look at the stars on a clear night, is it possible to believe that love is the highest power? When you allow the presence of mystery is anything possible? If we are one with the Cosmos and there is no separation, are we one with each other as well?

With chaos and destruction a natural part of the Cosmos, do we want to create our own human-made versions as well? The chaos and destruction in the Cosmos has a natural order. War and violence are artificial and have no good result.

Our true connection to the Cosmos lies in acknowledging our place in it, aligning with its natural rhythms and connecting with its bigger truth. If we can do this, it will be possible to create a deeper connection and to let go of our sense of separation from it. Our possibilities will then become as vast as the Cosmos itself.

What would it mean to open our connection to the Cosmos, beyond gazing at the stars? We would have to quiet ourselves. Our still point within is our first connecting point. From there, the connection will radiate outward, and boundaries will dissolve. Outer space has a cool brilliance. That is a part of us that we must find. The Cosmos is forever in creation and destruction and creation again. We must recognize that creation and destruction are the norm in our existence as well.

What does it mean to be one with say, The Pleiades constellation? That's a question! We are made up of the same elements, resulting in different forms. We can look at the Pleiades and see ourselves. We allow the constellations to inspire us. We learn about their existence and are therein informed about our place within the Cosmos.

As we experience our own and our Collective Chrysalis vision trumps practicality. Albert Einstein said, "We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them". In the same way, we cannot transform without a new way of being.

Is it possible to co-create with the Cosmos? Yes. First, we each must look for our unique path and destiny. The Cosmos will support us in the form of intuitive guidance, positive energy and greater wisdom that we can access from our still point within. We must listen and have the courage to advance. Once we are in the flow of this co-creation, we will find connections, coincidences, miracles, and blessings that lead us forward. Our unique paths all have harmony. As we co-create with the Cosmos, we will lead ourselves to our oneness and collective purpose.

We must see all beings and elements in the world as one with us. Are we killing ourselves as we kill others? Yes. Are we destroying ourselves needlessly as we destroy the natural beauty of the earth? Yes.

What will happen with the polarity we are experiencing now? It will hang on and then gradually dissolve as we see our true oneness. Polarity is separation, and we are moving to unity within the Cosmos.

Our collective imaginal cells are forming now. Our world is changing. We are growing and reaching a tipping point for our Collective Chrysalis. There is no stopping us now. New structures are forming. Oneness is at hand. The butterfly of our new existence will emerge, and we will fly together as one.

Our true connection with the Cosmos is that we are all one. As we embark or continue on our individual and Collective Chrysalis', our oneness and love intertwine. We lift ourselves out of separation and see what is possible. Our vision and our world expand into the mystery. There is much to discover. Our future is bright.

Magic Is Waiting  
Our Chrysalis Is Upon Us  
Let's Go!

Thank You!

Thank you for reading Chrysalis! The path ahead asks for all of us to come together and support each other as the imaginal cells that we are.

Did you enjoy the book? Please recommend it to friends and leave a review at your favorite retailer.

Resources

All the resources you need are within you. If there is something you need outside of you, your inner compass will get you to it.

Acknowledgements

My life is a mosaic of my experiences and the people I connect with. I acknowledge and thank from my heart for their contributions and support of this book:

My Muses

Ermanno Vanino

Juanita Sheppard

Jaci Pierce

Shelley Keller-Gage

Lynn Andrews and The Sisterhood of The Shields

Jillian Alexander Gregory

Louis Ismay

Lisa Osina

Malinda Elliott

Karen Erstad

Leslie Willhite

Chris Garvey

Susan Davison

Danielle Hess

Marion Claire

Women's Writers Network of Antelope Valley

The Clan of the Whistling Elk

My and Ermanno's families for being there

My dear friends for traveling life's journey with me

Book Cover design by Vanessa Maynard (http://www.vanessanoheart.net)

### About The Author

Ann is an author and coach dedicated to collaborating with her clients and readers as they create fulfilling lives and bring their unique gifts to the world.

Connect With Ann Vanino

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Other Books By Ann Vanino:

Power Stories: Mythical Tales Of Personal Power At Work

Coaching Corner Volume 1

Leadership On Trial: Lessons from The Apprentice

Kaleidoscope – Coming Soon

For more information on Ann's books and to order, go to <http://www.annvanino.com/books>

### Reading Group Guide

About The Book

We are living in a time of transformation. Old ways are fading. New ways are emerging. There is an increasing focus within. Many of us are feeling a desire to create a new direction for our lives.

Many have compared the changes we are experiencing to nature's Chrysalis—a biological process through which a caterpillar transforms, within the recesses of a dark cocoon, into a butterfly. Each stage of Chrysalis provides a jumping-off point, upon which to reflect about our own experiences, as the world around us and we as individuals transform.

The book is written as a Journaling Stream. The stages of nature's Chrysalis are used as containers for the author's writings - thoughts, musings, stories, and creations - about personal transformation from the inside out. These writings form separate drops that come together and create a stream.

Discussion Questions

Did a desire for change cause you to select this book for your group? If not what did?

What have been the elements of your ordinary life? Has any one of these elements led you to question or change your life or sparked your own Chrysalis?

What do you think about withdrawing into silence or solitude to find yourself? Are you comfortable with silence and solitude?

Have you ever experienced a breaking down of your life, the way a caterpillar breaks down in the cocoon? Did you think it was an end or a beginning?

What do you think of the concept of people as imaginal cells?

Do you think struggle is necessary for personal transformation?

What are the rewards of a new existence and becoming a "butterfly"?

Do you accept or reject the idea that the world is experiencing a Collective Chrysalis? What do you think are the possible outcomes of what the world is going through now?

Do you think we as humans have a connection with the Cosmos?

Enhance Your Discussion

Study the process of nature's Chrysalis and find new metaphors for personal transformation, not addressed in this book.

Visit a live butterfly exhibit at a museum, botanical garden or conservatory or a natural space with butterflies and experience the energy of butterflies.

Create an original visual or written description of your own transformation in your life so far, using nature's Chrysalis as your metaphor.
