Gunita XXXVIII: Paruparo

There is something peculiar about butterflies… hmm

Butterfly Theory

people often speak of butterflies for their wings. The colors. The patterns.

The way they transform the air around them simply by existing.

yet I wonder if butterflies ever realize how beautiful they are. If they know the gardens pause for them. If they notice the eyes that follow their flight. If they understand the wonder they carry so effortlessly.

you remind me of that.

• the way you struggle to accept compliments.
• the way you look away when you’re called beautiful.
• the way you search for proof of something that has always been true.

sometimes i want to sit you down and say “bia, my bebi you are not difficult to admire” not because of your appearance alone.

• Your kindness is beautiful.
• Your patience is beautiful.
• Your mind is beautiful.
• Your heart is beautiful.

And yes,

• Your smile is beautiful.
• Your eyes are beautiful.
• Every feature you criticize so easily is beautiful too.

perhaps that is the tragedy of butterflies.

they spend their lives carrying magnificent wings without ever being able to turn around and see them.

and perhaps that is why i keep reminding you.

not to convince you of something new. but to help you recognize what has always been there.

because if you are a butterfly,

then you have been beautiful all along.

and yes, you are a butterfly.

♡ sandaan ng gunita sa pangalan ng sinta