Over the Bank Holiday weekend I decided, as promised, to try out the Magic Bench! I had already had a large lunch with pleasant company, so when I sneaked off to the wood, I was not hungry. The feast could wait - but the ride to a magic land?Tentatively I sat down.
I saw the pattern of shadows of new leaves moving in the breeze. I felt the grain of the wood. I waited ...
Oh! A small green caterpillar hoisted itself up over the edge of the bench-table and began rippling along the surface. So gracefully undulating - a perfect ballet.
Was this the magic, then? Transformation? To be reminded that caterpillars become beautiful butterflies?
"But this caterpillar is wonderful now!" I exclaimed.
Satisfied, I arose from the bench as the caterpillar continued its journey and the evening sun shone on our own magical world.
16 comments:
It sounds like it was magical! I love your description.
Thank you Catherine! It was certainly a magical time.
Just sitting in once place quietly observing is magical. I had to do this for a field study class a few years ago and saw a whole bunch of snails go about their business (um, not THAT business). It was fascinating!
Working with benches, you can think of the word benchmark, too. As in surveyor's markings, or a computer benchmark. A bench can also represent lawmakers or jurists, as in the phrase - legislate from the bench. Just some ideas. Or a departure point in a novel for children (or the young at heart).
Perhaps the magic you seek is in the woods and not with the bench.
I agree, Monica - I love to sit, or stand and observe. Sometimes it is best not to take photos or sketch, as that almost creates a barrier to experiencing the wonder of nature.
Snails are wonderful to watch!
Thank you Prospero. I like the idea of creating a novel for the young at heart!
I've not thought about benches too much until this 'meme', although I have painted a few (as pictures, I mean!). I suppose for me they've always symbolized blissful solitude and contemplation, or a place to share a picnic with favourite people.
Barbara, I think the magic is everywhere!!
Phoenix, I can visual this story..very cute:) I love photos of benches, too, and you've captured a great one!
Thank you Lynn! Glad you enjoyed the magic journey!
I enjoyed this magic bench journey and the realization that the "caterpillar is wonderful now!"
Sometimes I wonder if I miss part of the nature experience when I'm taking pictures, as if the camera is sort of a "barrier" as you said. But maybe it's just a different way of seeing with the camera that is no better or worse than without.
Glad you enjoyed the journey, Diane!
As you say, the camera is a different way of seeing. I like to use all three if possible: without, with and with a sketch book too, to get the full experience - and bloggable records too!
That was a concept I liked - a bit of fantasy here is just what is needed.
Mine is now here.
Thank you RuneE! I shall visit yours now.
Thank you for your comment re Alan Garner. I'll look for those other books that you mentioned.
Cheers!
Hope you find them, Frances!
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