3. Butterflies in Summer
Incarnations of Spirits

Under the burning sun of midsummer, Mom was walking in the street alone. Lots of complicated processes for erasing the tracks of my life, close a bank account, pay a water bill that hadn't been paid yet. She felt drained and exhausted. It was close to her limit to behave as if she were a strong person and not destroyed by this catastrophe.

She took out her sunglasses and put them on in a rush. I knew she was crying. Then I became a Swallowtail and flew to her! She stopped and looked at me. She seemed to understand it was me! Then I flew around her many times and left.

After that, I flew to her quite often, especially when she looked very depressed and unhappy.

I just wanted to tell her,

"Don't be so sad!"

or,

"Thanks for running around for me!"

In the meantime, when she sees a butterfly, she says,

"Hi K! It's been a long time!"

People say butterflies are incarnations of spirits. It's true because "I" am saying so.

Ever since she noticed the butterfly, she began collecting things with

butterfly motifs. One of my favourites is a beautiful Limoges tea cup with colorful flowers drawn inside. The handle is a vivid Prussian Blue butterfly!

Her collection is increasing. It's good for her to have something she can get enthusiastic about.