20. SPIRIT OF SUMMER

When the butterfly emerged from his cocoon it seemed that he was hatched on the cold northern slopes of the mountain. Winter was drawing to an end but still it was icy cold this high up on the mountain. He wished for warmer weather where he could try out his new wings in the pleasant spring breeze. He flew further up the slope because he thought that he would find the sun shining there. But the higher up he went the colder the air became. He was looking for spring and he soon realized that he would not find it high up on top of the mountain. But if it wasn’t above how would it be below, he said to himself. Still, he turned around just then and started gliding down the slope in the cool winter breeze. Down to the valley below. It was far and his wings became tired at times, still he fluttered on in search of his elusive warm summer. After the longest of time he managed to reach the bottom slopes of the valley, and he entered the beautiful majestic valley where all was in bloom. If it was winter high above in the mountain, then it was certainly spring down here in this blissful valley. The air currents were warm and pleasant to his wings and he fluttered about happily among the birds and the bees. All the trees were green and all the flowers were in bloom. He had found his peaceful spring home at last, and all his efforts were worthwhile afterall. He who keeps on searching for peace and plenty will soon find it.