When Life Feels Heavy, Let Love Take the Lead

An Uplifting Message Inspired by The Exploring Me Series.

Some days don’t go as planned. Disappointment creeps in, and it can feel like the clouds just won’t part. Whether it’s a missed opportunity, a bump in the road, or a day that feels heavier than usual, there’s always one thing that can brighten even the stormiest skies: love.

At The Department of Butterflies, we believe in the power of love and self-discovery. That’s why The Exploring Me Series was created—not just as bedtime stories, but as tools for teaching children (and reminding ourselves) that love starts within. Whether it’s love for who we are, dreams of who we could be, or appreciation for the world around us, these moments of connection can lift our spirits and give us hope.

Here’s a little excerpt from Love Is Me, the third book in our series:

"Love is in everything, Just look you'll see.  Love is in you and love is in me"

When disappointment strikes, children look to us for reassurance. It’s okay to say, “Today didn’t go how I hoped, but that doesn’t mean tomorrow won’t be brighter.” Modeling resilience helps little ones see that love and hope are constants, even on the hardest days.

If you’re looking for ways to bring love into a tough day, here are a few ideas:

1. Create a “Gratitude Jar” Together: Write down one thing you’re thankful for, big or small, and drop it in a jar. Watching those slips of paper grow is a beautiful reminder of the good that’s always present.
2. Read Together: Stories spark joy, soothe hearts, and inspire dreams. Curl up with books like What I See or I Could Be to explore self-love and imagination with your child.
3. Draw a Butterfly: Butterflies symbolize transformation and growth. Let your child create their own butterfly to remind them that change is possible, and beauty is always on the horizon. 

At the heart of it all, disappointment is just one piece of life’s puzzle. The bigger picture is made up of connection, resilience, and love. If you or someone you love needs a little boost today, remember: the sun will shine again, and love will light the way.

What do you do to lift your spirits when things feel heavy? Share your ideas in the comments or tag us on Instagram (@departmentofbutterflies) with your favorite way to bring love into a tough moment. Together, we can spread kindness and hope—one little butterfly wing at a time.

And if you’re looking for stories that remind your family of the beauty inside and out, check out The Exploring Me Series—because love starts with knowing who we are.