Butterflies with a message

COLFAX - It is said that the appearance of a butterfly can signify that a passed loved one is with you always.

This was taken into consideration as attendees of the first Palouse Butterfly Release gathered in Shmuck Park, Saturday, Sept. 21.

The park gazebo filled with people who had sent in names of those they lost and those who came to share in the memories of their loved ones.

Tables along the edges of the gazebo had notes stating "you are missed," with other similar sentiments and tissues for those who needed it.

Rural Resources Care Coordinator Rheva Wren welcomed the crowd, explaining the butterflies were from Clearwater in Florida and were asleep, frozen in envelopes and would be passed out by some youth.

"It is said that butterflies are a symbol of transformation, joy and rebirth," Wren told the crowd, adding that when they got their butterflies they could whisper messages to those that they came to honor.

After being handed out, the crowd held them in their hands while names were listed.

Afterward, attendees dispersed in the park to set their butterflies free in remembrance of their lost loved ones.

Those in attendance watched as butterflies fluttered off around the park.