Universal Symbol of Stillness

The mantis is a universal symbol of stillness.

In most cultures around the world, she is a messenger telling us to be still, go within, meditate, and reach a place of simplicity and calm.

I found this little harbinger two summers ago, while I was on one of my “pregnancy walks.” I was so glad to see her, and I instinctively put my hand to the ground next to her. She tentatively climbed onto my palm with her beautifully grotesque spindly legs. She seemed very weak but incredibly wise, as if she held the secrets to the universe.

Looking into her eyes gave me pause. Such majesty and mystery in one small-ish bug. A living testament to the existence of aliens and a reminder that all is well in nature. An ancient prophecy of wealth and abundance, and a reminder of the cycle of life: birth, death, and resurrection.

But where does the whole “female devours male during copulation” come into play here?

I’ll let that one be for now.

Wishing you all good fortune today and always.

💚Ali