I’ve heard tales of a wonderland most enchanted, a blue and emerald planet of water and shifting ground. Gods and goddesses and enormous creatures ruled the places where rows of red houses line the hillsides and the children now play.
It is said that feathered beasts came from fearfully great lizards. And before that, from stars. Ancient bones and cosmic dust tell the story of where life began and how far it might spread.
In this place, water falls from mountains and crystals in the sky. The molten center of the planet erupts in fantastic displays of orange and ash, leaving plateaus and islands behind.
They wake to the light of the nearest star there and slumber in the light of countless more. In the wisdom of the morning, they set their night’s dreams free, and in the quiet of the night name their deepest wishes.
In this land, mighty vines climb walls and spin light into sugar. In the deepest waters, bioluminescent creatures make light of their own.
Life expresses herself through millions upon millions of living things. Among them are the humans, strange yet extraordinary creatures that dress themselves in gemstones and wool and speak through hand, body, and mouth. Their homes smell of cinnamon and lemon, and they mark time by their movement through space.
The humans built their kingdoms of glass and concrete where the forests once grew. Their settlements have grown so large and bright they can be seen from their moon. Many have forgotten that they were wild once. Those who remember speak of love and liberation. You can’t stop them from believing in peace no matter the troubles they see.
They heard their land was changing, so they’ve gone out to find each other.
They build wells and schools, plant trees, and harvest food for those they’ve never met. They practice the compassion that will heal their suffering, bit by bit returning hate and greed to unity.
Some call it the most magic of all places. Others see only devastation. Indeed, it is a world of immense contrast. Pain and pleasure, poverty and untold riches. Many are at war with each other, but so many more are in love.
Where do you stand among them, dear friend?
Your every day, here and now, happens in this place. Such beauty and magic surround you. For all the things that may be lacking and broken, there is so much working in perfect harmony as life sustains herself and the helpers come together. Close your eyes and breathe. Can you see it with your heart?
Watch for the beauty today. It is there.
And ask yourself this. If such beauty can be found with only a little attention, is life not beautiful? Are you not surrounded by it?
Sing your song and do your good work today. We will, too.
Take a moment for giving…
During this month of giving (and always) all proceeds from my Spark Shop Mother Earth collection go to the Rainforest Alliance.
If you feel called to donate or volunteer with a charitable cause related to environmental and wildlife protection, here are a few ideas to get you started:
This is so beautiful and abstract and unique. I am transported into a wonderland with your writing. It’s amazing!
I always find myself “centered” each time I read one of your posts, Leslie. THANK YOU