I don’t know if I was stunned with joy more than grief when an unexpected visitor arrives almost the same time I do at mother’s grave.
It happened at sunset after a long drive from Dallas to San Antonio.
Everyday visit to your mother’s grave
The drive gives plenty of time to sift through family memories.
Spectacular weather. Clear. No wind. 79 degrees. The October sun is setting. Light rays are firing like spotlights through the oaks spreading their branches like gatekeepers over mother’s cemetery.
The graveyard attendant points at the location and I begin walking.
This is my first time to visit mother’s grave since the funeral.
Upon arriving I’m delighted to see the headstone.
I hadn’t seen it because my brother ordered it after the burial.
I notice the icons representing my parents’ hobbies.
- Trophy buck for dad on the far left
- Sewing machine for mother far right
Two wedding rings in the middle joined by a cross.
Unexpected encounter with a monarch
Right after my glance at the headstone, a monarch butterfly lands in the middle of the two rings.
And then quickly, the butterfly flutters over to the sewing machine . . .
. . . and stays there.
I froze in disbelief.
Sewing was her only hobby.
I glance around to see if this is one of a swarm.
No. Only one butterfly.
I lean close and take the picture. The butterfly doesn’t move.
I just stood there in the October sunlight on my mother’s grave with the butterfly on her sewing machine.
And then the damn breaks. Tears pour.
“Is that you mother?”
Unexpected response from the monarch
The butterfly slowly opens her wings.
She leaves them open.
And I cry, releasing emotions piled up for years.
The Bible references many occasions when God uses critters or animals to accomplish His purposes.
I don’t have proof, but I believe this monarch was a messenger.
What are the odds a butterfly . . .
- lands on the wedding ring icon the second I arrive?
- quickly moves to the sewing icon?
- stays there for minutes with me staring?
Less than a mosquito hitting your artery.
Looking through the tears, I see the butterfly leave.
In that moment, I sense a message of hope in the presence of the seen and unseen world.
All is well.
Have you ever witnessed anything like this?
Wow Steve. My wife’s mother loved Monarchs, and they appear at the most amazing times as my wife grieves still over her passing almost a decade ago. I think we are convinced they are messengers each time. Because it doesn’t happen often; but when it does, it happens at the most interesting times. Fascinating. Thanks for sharing. M
It’s exciting to realize Mike that God, in his infinite power and creativity, surprises us with messages from his creatures. Thanks for sharing!
Steve, what a wonderful sign from your mom in heaven! It is glorious to think she is waiting for you and you will celebrate with each other again. Love you for sharing this tender moment.
Thank you for this comment Jim. Means a lot. I hope this story creates a tender memory for you and your loved ones.