Impermanence and Letting Go

Dream catchers are frequently made in prison. It’s a craft well-suited to that environment—only a few simple materials are needed, and there’s plenty of free time. Even though many people make them, I still marvel at every one I see. I like to look closely, searching for the person in the work.

In a Native American circle, I learned that dream catchers are traditionally made for children. They are also designed to fall apart eventually. This surprised me, perhaps because so much in modern life is expected to last as long as possible. Indigenous wisdom, however, honors the natural cycles of life.

This morning, I found a dream catcher that was completely falling apart. At first, I thought about fixing it. But then I remembered the tradition and its message. Instead of repairing it, I hung it up just as it was—a reminder to let go and let things run their course.

For reflection:

"What are you allowing to fall apart in your life right now?"