Power of Stillness

mantis: "type of insect that holds its forelegs in a praying position" (esp. the praying mantis, Mantis religiosa ), from Greek. mantis, lit. "one who divines, a seer, prophet," from mainesthai "be inspired," related to menos "passion, spirit"

Every summer we watch and wait for hundred of itsy bitsy mantids to emerge from their egg case. It's a lesson in patience, and a gift of wonder.

So tiny and still, this baby creature, sitting on the tip of my son's pinky finger - click on photo to enlarge!

Here is a video of our annual mantid release, (and S's happy dance)....