Butterfly Bungalow

As I stationed myself in the school lobby before the start of classes, I overheard two students sharing their struggles with the content of a particular class. As they described the assigned book they were reading, I heard the words “confused,” “doesn’t make sense,” and “I don’t understand” flow from their mouths. My first human internal response was empathy and dissatisfaction. This wasn’t right! How could I make it better? 

When my daughter was a child, we bought her a Butterfly Bungalow to track the miraculous transformation from chrysalis to butterfly. After days of waiting patiently, a few creatures began the breathtaking journey of fulfilling their created destiny. But one critter was slow to emerge, struggling to break through its surrounding shell.

“Dad, can I help the butterfly get out?” My daughter eagerly asked.

Disappointment quickly appeared on her face. “No Honey,” I responded. "It will do more harm than good.”

My limited understanding of science perceived that “doing the work” for the butterfly would most likely be its demise, preventing proper development through the strengthening of its wings.

As I sat in the lobby listening in on the students’ conversation, I was reminded of this general principle. As parents and mentors, we often want to limit or even eliminate the struggles our children experience. It is good to want students to be successful, and it is wise to provide them with proper support. But this guidance often requires self-control, encouraging them through the struggle rather than removing it. Soon a grin appeared on my face, realizing that these students perceived “academic struggles” were actually the key ingredients for their learning. 

As Jesus “taught” his disciples over 3 years, He gives us a clear picture of our role as adult guides. Often, he did not remove obstacles or struggles, but rather used them as an instrument to mature them as His followers. Yes, Jesus did often step in and provide amazing relief and even miracles to provide stunning solutions. And while God’s Spirit resides in us as well, a balance is needed to be “Jesus” to our children while also allowing them to struggle at times. These opportunities will prompt them into a greater trust and dependence on God the Father, Jesus His Son, and the power of the Holy Spirit inside of them.

So the next time we see our little butterflies struggling to emerge, let’s consider how to ignore the impulse to make it easier. Rather, develop and monitor a safe and healthy “Butterfly Bungalow” for our children to grow, develop, and strengthen through their struggles. With God’s help, they will be transformed more and more into His prescribed image! 
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