The Extraordinary Journey of an Ordinary Dragonfly
About the Book
In the not-so-distant future, a hidden valley lies untouched by humankind — surrounded by steep mountains and ancient forests, a place where nature still breathes freely. In its heart rests a quiet lake where a little blue-eyed dragonfly awakens to his first day of life. Newly transformed from a nymph in the water, he marvels at the beauty around him and begins to wonder about his purpose — and what might lie beyond this life on Earth.
A wise grasshopper encourages him to journey across the lake to the great willow tree, where the blind Mantis — a prophet of remarkable insight — may hold the answers he seeks. Along the way, the little dragonfly meets a gluttonous toad, a proud red dragonfly, a vain butterfly, and a hungry yet empathetic bird. Each encounter tests his courage, compassion, and understanding of the world.
When he finally reaches the Mantis, the dragonfly learns that the answers he searched for were never hidden — only waiting to be remembered.
*The Extraordinary Journey of an Ordinary Dragonfly* is a story for every age — simple enough for children to enjoy, yet rich with meaning for anyone who has ever pondered life’s purpose and the light within us all.
An enchanting fable of self-discovery and transformation, it invites readers to reflect on their own paths — reminding us that wisdom often hides in simplicity, and that even the smallest wings can carry the greatest truths.
One of Nine Interior Illustrations
“We are not human beings having a spiritual experience; we are spiritual beings having a human experience. - Pierre Teilhard de Chardin” I saw this quote on a bumper sticker a very long time ago. I’m not sure I even understood it at the time, but I never forgot it. Like many people, I feel like the little dragonfly, seeking the same answers throughout my life that he did—wondering about the purpose of our lives and what lies beyond our Earthly existence. Why is there so much suffering in the world? Why can life be so difficult and challenging, often causing us to question our beliefs? Sometimes it is hard to see how much beauty and love there still is in the world because of the suffering. Sometimes we just have to open our eyes.
My beliefs are still changing and evolving, and I imagine they will continue to do so for the rest of my life until I’m ready to meet the Mantis again. I hope you enjoy reading this story as much as I did writing it, and that it helps you along your journey. There is so much more to discover.
Thank you,
John
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