During its life cycle, the butterfly must completely dissolve its former self to become its final form. In its larval stage, the caterpillar consumes as much as it can while shedding its skin to grow. When its body can no longer produce the hormones necessary to grow, it forms its cocoon around itself and begins the radical change to its adult body. Initially, it consumes as much as it can to build itself. Then, it becomes one of the great pollinators, helping flowers grow and promoting beauty everywhere it flies. This change is instinctual and part of the butterfly's development, but that doesn't make the process any less interesting.
We are also constantly changing and evolving into versions of ourselves shaped by who we once were. The situations we find ourselves in, the people we meet, and our experiences impact how we operate moving forward. This change is also natural and gradual, often happening without any intentionality.
Intentional change is far more daunting. It involves several stages and can be uncomfortable, especially if it's directed and not self-initiated. It requires stripping away some of what we know, do, or believe and becoming acquainted with new concepts. In the end, hopefully, you are left with improvements that you can use to help make the environment around you that much more beautiful.
