I warily glance up; my eyes are met with overwhelming darkness. The normally placid moon is ominous, and the stars seem to be sneering, mocking me. In the distance I hear the running water of a stream. It is not a peaceful, calming sound; its anticlimactic monontony is unnerving, as if it could be abruptly, unpleasantly interrupted at any moment. For reasons unknown, I venture into the forest.
When my bare feet leave the meadow's cool moss, I feel the sting of a thorn on the sole of my left foot. I calmly remove the tiny nuisance, tossing it to the ground and continuing forward.I eventually arrive at the edge of the stream, watching the moon's reflection wavering among those of the trees. I notice a fallen log forming a perfect bridge over the water. Carefully making my way across, I sit in the center, my feet dangling inches from the surface.
I notice something sparkle, struck by the moonlight at just the right angle. Intrigued, I look down to see what the object is, and notice a small, roughly round hole in the log. Inside sits a tiny white mushroom, unlike any I have ever encountered. Its shape and size are nothing out of the ordinary; what is spectacular is the glitter shimmering all over the little fungus. Its tenderness and light are alien in the intimidating forest. It seems to be calling to me, a gentle whisper. By eating this mushroom, I would not be destroying it; I would be helping it fulfill its purpose. One, two, three, and I partake in my personal communion. I swallow a handful of clear water to wash it down, unsure of what is to come. The bitter taste fades.
Suddenly, it happens. Blissfully lost in a swirling reality, I thank the forest for its generosity. Rising from my seated position, I essentially skip across the sleeping tree and onto the bank's edge. I walk confidently, freely, through the trees, as if guided by some wise entity. Rather than tearing maliciously at my clothes, the branches seem to part and allow me to proceed.
I reach the meadow again, looking up toward the crescent moon once more. Its brightness illuminates my physical sight, but also my entire soul. I can see with mindblowing clarity, and I begin the journey home, listening to the water's music.