Stoneflies, trees, and me

From Ellery Akers "Metamorphosis" -

Oddly, touchingly, it reached over to its old shed skin, still perfect except for the split down the center, and began stroking it all over with its antennae, as if in some kind of farewell.  Then it made its way back toward the stream, stopped, and stood facing the water where it had spent so many months.  I began to feel afraid for it again: it looked so flimsy.

As if in response to an inner signal, it dashed to the top of the rock, lifted its wings, and fluttered off.  Drifting into a weak patch of evening sun, the stonefly seemed to catch fire: for a few seconds I watched with longing as it flared in front of me like a living spark.  Then it wobbled off into the shade, and out of sight.  

From my Peace Corps Aspiration Statement - 

So how do I plan to adapt to a new culture with respect to my own cultural background?  By maintaining the core integrity of who I am while allowing myself to grow and change as I live and serve in FSM and Palau.  In other words, I plan to mindfully transplant my roots to the rich cultural soil of FSM and Palau, fully understanding and anticipating the need to adapt according to the realities of my experience.  Many of my branches will change their shape or the color of their leaves; some may reorient themselves to face different sources of light; some will grow higher than I could ever imagine; and perhaps some will beat against certain cultural windows or not grow an inch.  My trunk will sway and my roots will grow deeper.

As hard as I may try, I cannot anticipate all the ways I will need to adapt to my new culture during my service and the process will not be easy.  But I can be mindful of my adaptation; within that mindfulness, be open to new experiences and directions; and when faced with challenges and struggles, be confident that my trunk is strong yet flexible.