Photo taken by contributor Livonne, a 55-year-old woman who lives in the Blue Mountains of Australia. She was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder over 20 years ago following a troubled childhood, a violent marriage, and the tragic death of her 10-year-old daughter on an access visit. She eventually found herself unable to work full time and at a loss as to what the future held for her. She returned to college three years ago to study photography to complement the blog she writes about her life. When she was very young, she escaped the trauma of her childhood by retreating to fantasy. The Magic Faraway Tree was her main escape. She now finds that same sense of peace by creating fantasy pieces and enjoys not only storytelling with words but also with pictures.

About this photo: “Chrysalis – I watch her with loving sadness, as she dulls her shine to please others.  Will this butterfly ever soar?  Will she continue to pretend she can’t fly?  Her greatest life awaits this decision…. Steve Marabol.”

Find more from Livonne at her Facebook page and blog.

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