Her Dream

Story by Michele Oksen

In the shadows of the woodlands a young dreamer rises from slumber. Once on her feet she yawns, and stretches. She rubs her eyes, then observes the curious landscape around her. Bewildered by the obscure environment, she stands still and silent. She listens and looks for signs of familiarity. Her intuition begins to engage.

As the girl seeks to claim her bearings, she is alone, but unafraid. She admires the mossy rocks, grassy knolls, and small rain-filled swales. Above her, a yellow canopy of leaves rustles. The gentle breeze cools her bare arms and legs. She shivers as her toes massage the damp earth.

Inhaling to capacity, she closes her eyes. A broad smile emerges across her face when the euphoric scent of petrichor emanates from below. Upon exhalation, the spirited girl turns to face the warm sunlight. She opens her eyes, squints, and stares. Through an opening in the trees, in the distance, a dazzling sight astonishes her. She draws a quick breath. Amidst the glare, a quixotic scene, a portrayal, or perhaps an evocation becomes visible before her. The nebulous image awakens her. Enraptured by the golden glow she senses her life is but a dream.