Montreal, QC

I got this lighter ten years ago. It was a birthday present from the man I would eventually cheat on my partner with. Although at the time I was riddled with guilt, this act of betrayal led to me leaving an unhappy relationship, quitting my depressing job, getting my high school diploma, and escaping my small town. I am now in the process of getting my PhD, something I never thought possible.

The lighter broke soon after I received it but I kept it anyways. When I look at the lighter, I am reminded of how much everything has changed. I like that the butterfly also happens to be a symbol of metamorphosis.