An ant, scurrying around on the forest floor, noticed a dry and dead-looking leaf-pod overhead that seemed to be moving. Taking a second look, he realized that the plant was actually a chrysalis.
 
“You poor thing,” said the ant. “Here I am, running around and enjoying this beautiful day while you are stuck in an ugly shell, barely able to move that scaly tail of yours. You must be so envious of me.”
 
A few days later, the ant passed by the chrysalis again and noticed it was empty.
 
A voice called from high above called out, “Up here.” The ant looked up to see a gorgeous butterfly fluttering overhead, its wings a shimmering rainbow.
 
“It’s me,” said the butterfly, “the creature you pitied and taunted. I wish I had the time to tell you how sorry I am that you’re stuck on the ground, but I’ve got to fly.”
 
Appearances can be deceiving.
 
11 1/2” diameter