A Butterfly
Anonymous
A butterfly lights beside us like a sunbeam and for a brief moment its glory and beauty belong to the world. But then it flies on again and though we wish it could have stayed, we feel so lucky to have seen it.
About This Reading
A Butterfly is a short anonymous reading that uses a gentle image to describe loss, a butterfly appearing briefly like a sunbeam, bringing beauty to the world, then flying on. Its tone is warm and reassuring, offering a simple way to express gratitude for a life, however long or short, and the lasting impact of a brief presence.
Because it is very short, it can be read at almost any point in the service, including an opening welcome, a moment of reflection, or as a closing thought. It may be especially fitting for the funeral of a child or young person, but it can also suit any service where families want something tender and easy to understand. Suitable for both secular and religious ceremonies, it can comfort mourners by focusing on love, gratitude, and the privilege of having shared time together.
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