As I’ve shared before, one of the ways I find peace and connection is with a walk in the woods near my house, several times a week. I love it! It’s so beautiful and peaceful and is my refuge.
Recently, one of my walks took on a magical twist when I was joined by my great-niece, Maya, who’s 3 ½ years old.
The woods I walk in all the time had suddenly become, The Enchanted Forest.
She and her imaginary friend Everest (who was very real to her) led my sister and I with confidence and enthusiasm on quite the journey, filled with play, creativity, and joy.
I’ll tell ya, when life feels mundane or heavy, the perfect antidote is to spend time with a child.
What did we experience?
The Enchanted Forest has fairies of course. Although we didn’t have any sightings on this day, we did see where the fairies live in their gorgeous hollowed-out trees.
As we were walking, Maya saw a stick. So, she picked it up and declared to us that this was her walking stick. It was the perfect size for her, and she looked like an old soul who had led this walk hundreds of times before.
It was so heart- opening and fun to be in her innocent and joy-filled presence. Everything was magical. She didn't miss a beat.
She would say hi to people passing and you could see by the smile on their face that she had brought joy to their heart with her openness and just being who she is – pure, open, loving essence.
As we continued, the log on the ground became a boat. We all hopped on and she used her walking stick to paddle us forward.
I thought to myself, this is one of the most enjoyable and fun walks I have ever taken.
Why? Her imagination and enthusiasm were contagious.
I truly think Maya should lead walks in the Enchanted Forest for adults. It would be a real hit!
When it was time to leave the forest, the magic continued all the way home. Stopping to smell the flowers, looking with intent at the worm on the sidewalk. She was curious about everything; just as I attempt to be with my Mindfulness practice.
When I think about how I meditate every day and practice mindfulness, it is so I can be present and connected to essence like Maya does so naturally.
I am so deeply grateful for Maya. She continues to be my teacher.
What if we were all to tap into the curiosity and wonder Maya has? Give ourselves permission not to be ever-so-serious adults and instead, have the intention to play and be curious.
We were all once in this place of innocence; present, connected. Now as adults it’s easy to forget or not see the wonder of life within us and around us.
For me, the journey inward is to reconnect with the love, truth, essence.
It is there within us and it’s just a matter of stopping and having the intention to explore, and move beyond the linear mind, being open to all possibilities.
This is possible in easy, simple ways. There’s no need to over-complicate.
The tree on the ground is a boat, the hollowed-out log is a home for fairies…
What else is possible?
Go on now, find some time this week to explore. Your own Enchanted Forest awaits.
Much love,
Diane