Prayer to the Isopod (aka: pill-bug, sow-bug, rolly-polly, etc.)

Prayer to the Isopod
Evolutionary marvel, older than mankind,
 I ask for your strength today.  
Called “insect” or “bug”, and given cute nicknames, 
you are none of those things in truth. 
Inspire me to know that the labels others put on me, 
don’t define who I really am. 
Help me see that it’s an evolutionary skill 
to curl up sometimes and wear my armor when frightened or overwhelmed. 
It’s not a sign of weakness,
when I take the time to put self-preservation into play.
A liminal animal who’s lineage branches to both earth and sea, 
help me adapt to environments that seem too difficult to thrive in. 
Lead me through the darkness that you call home, my friend, 
so I do not fear it’s shadow. 
Strong little Isopod, 
May your many legs walk beside me and be my guide. 
May your influence motivate me to view the world in a new light today.

​-Amber Araneae 2020