It was Sunday and we were on a family walk through a foggy forest. As we walked through the trees, we noticed something new.
Every so often, up in the branches flew large wooden butterflies, brightly painted and cheerfully contrasting with the sombre winter scene around.
The children commented and pointed, I heard 'Madame Papillon!' and laughter and I realised that it had changed not only the way I looked at the beautiful but sombre woods around me, but how I was feeling in that moment as well.
Butterflies are the sign of Madame Papillon, but why? The transformation that can come if the earth-shattering experience of burnout is not ignored, but explored, is as surprising and beautiful as the butterfly that grows from the caterpillar. When we break down what happened, while taking real care of ourselves in a supportive environment, not only do we heal, but we learn. We can grow.
Sharing, community, support - these are all values that underlie Madame Papillon. And that's what I felt when I spotted the butterflies. I am part of a supportive community that I craved when I was in the depths of burnout. We have created a safe space for sharing difficult experiences, accompanied by women who understand how it feels.
If you cannot see butterflies among the trees right now. If the path is muddy and the light hazy, all I can do is invite you to join us. Sign up for our newsletter, take a look at our events page, and connect to a community that cares.
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