Catawba Valley Living at Rock Barn’s staff, Genny Spencer and Linda Speaks, recently released butterflies in honor and remembrance of those who were lost to COVID during a special service. These beautiful creatures were intended to help bring peace to residents, families and staff who are grieving.
Anna Wilson, Rock Barn’s Executive Director, spoke about how butterflies are a symbol for change, as they go through metamorphosis and eventually emerge from their cocoon with new, beautiful wings. She praised their team, who went through their own sort of metamorphosis during the past year — they had to adapt to ever changing guidelines to help residents through the tough times, as well as navigating through many other unexpected challenges. And now, they are beginning to come out on the other side.
During the service, Catawba Valley Living and Carolina Caring staff members shared ways of coping with grief due to COVID. Wilson spoke about how letting go is an important part in the process. Carolina Caring Bereavement Counselor, Annette Walker, read a poem to acknowledge that those who passed are always a part of us through remembrance. Chaplain Bruce Dayton read scripture and shared comforting words.
“If you have ever seen a butterfly come out of its cocoon, they are so fragile and delicate,” says Wilson. “They feel as if their wings don’t fill the space around them like before, but that is just because it takes time to heal after leaving such an uncomfortable place.”
Those in attendance were invited to pick out a memorial stone for their loved one to have as a keepsake. A Tibetan singing bowl rang as each name was called.
