Caterpillars Don't Fly

Every species on earth endures some form of change and evolution. In each instance, it can be argued that the success and longevity of each of these species rely heavily on how they manage it. A caterpillar’s transformation to a butterfly is one of nature’s most magnificent occurrences. Few scientists know what occurs within the caterpillar’s anatomical state to determine when it begins its transformation. The short answer is that the caterpillar determines when it has reached its desired size and strength; then it begins its transformation. I believe the metamorphosis begins on a day when the caterpillar determines it is ready for more. I believe the caterpillar asks itself, “Why crawl when I can fly?”

When the caterpillar decides it is ready for its metamorphosis, it stops eating and seeks a place of refuge and peace. This location is usually a twig or tree branch high enough to remove itself from natural threats, like rain and wind, but low enough to remain exposed to predators. It then hangs upside down and spins a silky cocoon, also known as a chrysalis. Within its protective casing, the caterpillar undergoes arguably the most aggressive and radical transformation of any species on earth. This stage of the caterpillar’s life cycle is called the pupa.

When observing the pupa phase from the outside, one might assume the caterpillar is resting within its cocoon. However, inside the cocoon, the soon-to-be butterfly is transforming its external and internal appearance to match its true potential. Its tissue, organs, and limbs are evolving to enable it to fly. Its instinct to crawl for food is silenced. Its satisfaction with the world it knew dies. It completely surrenders itself to the old and fully accepts the new. The caterpillar emerges from the chrysalis as a beautiful and majestic butterfly, the entire world within its reach.

Many will argue that caterpillars lack thought and free will. Others will claim that a caterpillar doesn’t make a conscious decision to begin the metamorphosis; rather it is just a part of its life cycle. Scientists don’t believe there are experiences, situations, or variables that force the caterpillar to look within itself and realize a change is necessary. Perhaps these are the same people who argue against change. I’ve learned many of the same people who are unwilling to change are the ones who try to rationalize against change. They use phrases like, “This is how I’ve always done it,” and “If it isn’t broken, why fix it?” when their status quo is challenged.

It is true—millions of caterpillars die before they begin their transformation. Life gets the better of them. I’m sure millions more die during the pupa phase for a myriad of reasons. After all, a caterpillar hangs upside down inside a cocoon without the ability to protect itself. Hanging upside down is a sign of complete submission to a process. It’s perhaps the most vulnerable position someone or something can be in. It’s downright scary. During this phase, a caterpillar surrenders to the world and accepts the short-term outcome in exchange for the long-term gain.

I believe there is a caterpillar in all of us. We are all born with untapped potential. We are all born with an inner voice of reason that argues against the outward voice of experience. We face a world set to see us fail before we ever achieve our goals in life. Even more alarming and disheartening, many of us understand this reality and never choose to enter our own pupa phase. Even after weighing the risks and rewards, some choose to remain idle.
Caterpillars Don’t Fly isn’t about shaming anyone into accepting change. Nor is it about the life cycle of caterpillars. Rather, this book is about questioning the status quo and pushing toward self-improvement. Sure, life as a caterpillar is comfortable when it’s all we’ve ever known. We are surrounded by caterpillars at home, at work, at church, at school, and in most places we frequent. I’m sure you can name ten people right now who could list a million reasons they might accept a life as a caterpillar instead of risking the metamorphosis required to become a butterfly.

I challenge you to read these pages with an open mind. I will parallel change and transformation in both my personal and professional life. By no means am I an expert on change management. I am not a psychologist, life coach, or therapist. I cannot tell you what you are doing wrong and what I am doing right. All I can do is share what the result has been after I consciously decided to enter my pupa phase. I’m sure I will enter several more pupa phases throughout my life. My goal is to be a butterfly in every facet of life. I hope my story encourages you to do the same.

Caterpillars don’t fly. But then again, why should they? Why remain a caterpillar, when we can become butterflies?