I recently was going through one of my many journals and I came across a piece I had written back in 2013 while attending a meditation retreat.  At the time, I had recently given up drinking and was struggling emotionally and socially.  Emotionally struggling  in that alcohol was a crutch for me and socially struggling since many of my friends seemed to disappear.  The meditation retreat was something I needed to help me through this troubling time.

After re-reading this piece I had written, I was interested in finding out the symbolism of the dragonfly.  I chuckled as I read because the dragonfly symbolizes change.  How appropriate since I was going through a major change in my life.

Below I have transcribed the writing from my journal and also the detailed symbolism of the dragonfly.

The Dragonfly

I watched the dragonfly trapped inside the room desperately try to escape.  Bang, bang, bang on the window went the dragonfly.  It’s efforts futile, but she never gave up.  I sat and watched her tremendous effort in trying to escape.  Suddenly I was flooded with a feeling of sadness and desperation.  It was almost as if I could feel what the dragonfly was feeling.  She was frightened, desperate, frantic, and I could feel that.  I was determined to help set her free. 

I tried to open the screen on the window she was tapping against, but it would not slide open.  I decided to try and move her toward the door.  I used my slipper-socks hoping she would cling to them.  She didn’t do that, so I used them as a guide pushing her closer to the door.  In an instant she darted through the open door to freedom.  She flew to the right and I watched her fly until I lost sight of her.

Some might call me crazy, but I heard her speak to me as she flew through the door.  In a high pitched voice I heard her say, “Thank you for setting me free.  Thank you for my freedom.”

Symbolism of the Dragonfly

“The dragonfly, in almost every part of the world symbolizes change and change in the perspective of self realization; and the kind of change that has its source in mental and emotional maturity and the understanding of the deeper meaning of life.

The traditional association of Dragonflies with water also gives rise to this meaning to this amazing insect. The Dragonfly’s scurrying flight across water represents an act of going beyond what’s on the surface and looking into the deeper implications and aspects of life. ” (www.dragonfly-site.com/meaning-symbolize.html)

I have also included a link to a personal reflection I wrote about giving up alcohol.  This is the vulnerable side to me.  It’s hard to write about personal struggles, but I feel it’s important since it may help someone else who is struggling.

A Personal Reflection – Giving up Alcohol

Thank you for taking the time to read my journal entry and struggle.  My hope is that this might resonate with someone who is struggling too.

XOXO   Wendy