Midsummer’s Night
By Kallan Kennedy
She sits in silence as the longest
day finally recedes.
A watcher, she is careful not
to intrude; this night does not belong to her. The lightning bugs are the first
to break the ebony cloak, as they illuminate the forest.
The anticipatory tension
increases with each passing moment. Will they come? Will they show themselves?
It seems as if she is not the only one asking.
The death beetles and
crickets begin their song- a cacophonic competition that rises and falls in
synchronization, inviting them to the dance. She holds her breath and tries to
stay in the moment.
Don’t think. No anticipation.
No expectation allowed. Be here. Be present. Be grateful. Feel the air filled
with water; it is heavier than the night. Smell the bracing scent of forest
pine and sassafras. Listen to the nocturnal concerto. Hone in on the fireflies
as they pepper the scene. Wait- are those eyes? Yes! Several sets, piercing
blue and moving this way! They have come!
As she draws in breath, it is
stolen by their majesty. These are not the tiny winged creatures of silly
folklore, but they are much more magnificent than she had ever imagined. Towering,
lithe, and agile, their shine is mesmerizing.
They light a fire, and set up
camp. The drummers join in the woodland symphony, as the dancers warm up. The
king and queen take their places on cedar thrones, while the court prepares to
feast. Their laughter is contagious and she forgets herself for a moment. The
king’s head turns her way as her hand quickly covers her mouth. His eyes make
contact with hers, and he winks before turning his attention back to the
celebration at hand.
The fair folk begin their
joyous festivity of fecundity and Mystery that will last until sunrise. She
smiles as she takes it all in, knowing she is right where she belongs.
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