The Transmutation of Fear

And right before my eyes . . .

Our home is situated smack dab in the middle of a kaleidoscopic display of wild mushrooms.  A naturalist would have a field day here, identifying the many other worldly species in all their shapes, sizes, and colors.

During this past summer, my friend and I took a leisurely walk through our pine ladened forest, where fairy sized mushrooms flanked the pathway.  Two strides ahead of us was a blossoming moss colored mushroom which caught my friend’s attention.  As we approached the enchanting little fungi, my friend knelt down on one knee to stroke the flattened green hued cap as though it were a purring kitten.  Her amusement was quite engaging, though I couldn’t help but think I wouldn’t be petting a wild mushroom if I be thee.  A few seconds later, I blurted out in plain English, “I wouldn’t touch a wild mushroom.  You know, they could be poisonous.”

Well, it was not long after I said the “P” word where the look on my friend’s face went from one of pure enjoyment to one of concern.  Her eyes first registered the alarm and for a moment I thought she would turn a shade of green.

But, instead my friend slowly stepped backwards and looked down towards her fingers.  She then wiped them on her pant leg and next took a deep breath while simultaneously closing her eyes.  And, right before my eyes I watched my friend transmute the fearful thought form; as it went from one of fear and worry to one of comfort and relief.

When she opened her eyes, which now appeared tranquil, she began to tell me about her dear friend who has led her on many a nature walk, reveling in the abundant beauty of the forest.  I knew the person she was talking about.  The mere mention of this person’s name had a calming effect on both my friend and me.  Though I had only met this individual one time, I was greatly impressed by their calm, well-grounded demeanor.

I felt badly for having caused my friend concern.  Maybe the mushroom was completely benign.  Then again, maybe it wasn’t.  We walked in the direction toward our garage where I had hoped my friend would want to wash her hands.  However, we remained walking.  It was now my turn to transmute the fearful thought.

I can remember instances in my life where fear was foremost on my mind.  I can also distinctly remember those moments where my fear was met with fear or agitation which further escalated my emotions.  The standout moments in my life took place when my heightened fear was met with an assurance of love and care. Calm begets calm.

It is through love’s gate that we must enter in order to transmute the fear.  And here, I thought I was simply taking a walk in the woods today.