Don’t fret about the shades

that flit before my eyes

they are my butterflies,

they are not my shadows

but valor born inside

despite each shadow’s span,

though you cannot see them

they mark each shift of light,

their wings were born in pain

and yet, watch them take flight –

how few could say the same,

when I was suffering, they came;

don’t fret about the shades

that flit before my eyes

they are my butterflies.

Antonia Sara Zenkevitch

(N.B. Various chronic illnesses, and seen and unseen and disabilities have an awareness butterfly or ribbon. There are a lot of colours, many of them representing more than one condition or kind of struggle. For example, green can symbolize awareness of cerebral palsy or depression, amongst other challenges faced by many. For me, each butterfly is a symbol of awakening perceptions, of connection with others, and a reminder of the inner strength, creative expression and daily determination by which we empower ourselves to move forward with our lives despite any barriers we face. They are also a reminder of the need to break down those barriers. With many chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia, M.E, E.D.S. or asthma, there is a need to find better treatments or cures. In the case of many disabilities/differences and neurodivergencies, it is not about a cure but about increasing inclusion, understanding and aids to living a full, rich and meaningful existence. For me and countless others written word and art are realms where our butterflies have flight.)