The Hidden World

The unsaturated earth releases a sigh of relief as new rain falls onto the greedily-awaiting ground. I can sense the whimpering shadows retreating from the calm rays of sunshine. The never-ending lushes of greens and browns whispering inaudible words into my eager ears. I understand their story of the floods and blazing hungry fires that they have braved. In turn, their ancient spirits guide me to a place of peace and tranquillity. Splayed hands brush lightly across the grizzled bark of sturdy oaks, sending sparks of love and balance. Worries and struggles evaporate as the greetings of birds mix with nervous rustles, leading me to a riverbank known as the home to many creatures of this mystical forest. Soft, gentle reeds sway in the light-tugging breeze as my feet sink deeper into the welcoming river. The sun's warm touch is as comforting as a mother's embrace. Smooth rocks sidle up to my awaiting feet, urged forward with the resonating pulse of the diamond-clear water. Eyes, close and open as they awake to the world underneath. I feel the slight tickle of fish as I breathlessly watch the shimmering light enhance their elegance. My world feels suddenly built anew, and I further enter this magical world hidden beneath the winding surface. With my hands stretched out to a future worth saving, I listen to the harmonious sounds of the river. Like the dancing water droplets in the world above, bubbles make a desperate dash to the enchanting surface.

“What can I do to help?” I ask.

“Listen,” is the only reply.

And it is the only reply I need as my face, still alight with pure joy, breaks the barrier between worlds and shatters the connection that will leave me with a life of joy.