The mantis experiences 7 life phases, each (except birth) preceded by a molt. For a mantis, the time just preceding the molt is one of crucial preparation, in part because the molt is a direct encounter with death. We have a similar arrangement, but our molts are internal, and our cultures expressly inhibit and deny them. I sense that our species undergoes a similar process over evolutionary history. And I am nearly certain there is a molt coming up. Right about now, actually.