In many cultures the dragonfly symbolises transformation, change, and self-realisation. This is largely because a dragonfly endures several transformations before finally becoming the creature that flies in the breeze on its beautiful wings.  

For me personally, the symbolism and life-cycle of the dragonfly resonates with what we as former JWs experience. This is why I chose it for the Witness No More logo.

Most of a dragonfly’s life is spent entirely under water, first as an egg and then as a nymph. Nymphs shed their outer layer as they grow, and this happens multiple times before they are ready to transform into a dragonfly. At this stage, the adult dragonfly emerges from its nymph exoskeleton, but slowly, to allow time for its body to harden up and its wings to dry. Then, when it is ready, it takes off.

As JWs we were also ‘under water’ for a large part of our lives, with our worldview narrowed and our development inhibited by the lies and mistruths of an organisation that does not have our best interests at heart. As we become aware of this we slowly change, shedding beliefs we learn to be untrue and preparing for a life outside of the organisation, like the nymph shedding its outer layers and preparing to become an adult.

Then, like the transformation from the nymph to the dragonfly, we leave the organisation, shedding our old identity. But, like the newly emerged dragonfly, we also need time to adjust. Time to understand our experience and to learn about ourselves and the world. Time to metaphorically harden up and prepare our wings before we can fly.  

Then, when we are ready, we take off. Finally free to live our lives fully, without the limitations and distortions that have held us back for so long.

Happy flying everyone.