Melinda walked along the edge of the forest. She wasn’t sure why she returned to this particular area or why she was drawn to the edge of the wilderness at all. Maybe it was in her nature to be drawn to the lure of the wilderness. After all, her mother was a well-known tom-boy and woods woman in her day. She, of course, matured and learned the error of her ways through many hard times and lessons which she shared with Melinda on a continual basis. But to be likened to her mother was the last thing Melinda wanted to think about at the moment. Then she heard it or maybe she felt it. She definitely sensed it. She felt his presence watching, waiting for her and so she stepped in.
One footstep inside the lush green sanctuary fell as one gigantic splash into another universe. Every step progressed towards something completely different, refreshing, renewing, calming, and life affirming. He beckoned, and Melinda knew that it was simply his presence.
Who could understand what it was like to be in the presence of a creature as fair and pure as a unicorn? Who could understand how it felt to be washed in the glow of his acceptance and tender affection? Well, certainly not her mother. She measured the value of a creature by how many carts it pulled or how many dinners it would serve. Certainly not her father. He valued only that which could serve his needs when he demanded. No, only Melinda could appreciate her unicorn. Only Melinda could understand.He bent his head and urged her deeper into the woods. She laid one hand gently across his mane and followed. Understanding no longer mattered. It never did as long as she was with him. Neither pain, nor sorrow, nor stress of any kind could afflict her too deeply when she was with him. He was her aqua vitae, and she was his light.
Why did he journey so close to the edge of his native lands? Why was he so tempted each day to return? Even he would not be immune to the cruelest tortures mankind often inflicted upon the many creatures of the forest they happened upon. He should be wiser and more cautious as he had always been. He should have remained mindful of the laws of ages, which would have prevented the barbaric creatures from laying eyes on him, but he was compelled. This one human was so radiant, so moving, that he had to return.
This dalliance went on for some time, Melinda and her unicorn, until it became a rumor and rumors spread. The unicorn watched sadly as cruelty of words and judgment took its toll on Melinda, until he could stand it no more.
Come, he called to his beloved, and she came. She laid her tender hand upon his mane. No, he stopped her and gestured toward his side. Her eyes widened as she understood and then carefully, full of trust, she climbed upon his strong, white back. Then, together they journeyed for what seemed like years until they came to a hidden place beyond the edge of time.
I could be a man, he said slowly, quietly. I could walk in your world, be there at your side, and end these wagging of tongues.
“Never,” she replied. “I would have you no other way. It would hurt you. It would change you. THEY would change you. “
They could not, he replied. I am stronger than you understand. You will see. He nodded sadly and touched her gently. Beloved, he said. This lifetime of mine is almost over. It would take more strength than I have to be transformed in this world, but I can join you in spirit.“In spirit? Whatever do you mean?” Melinda questioned anxiously.
I am with you now, the unicorn replied as Melinda awoke.
Melinda lived out the rest of her days with more life, joy, and love then anyone could understand. She married faithfully as was her station in life, raised seven healthy and loving children, and died at a ripe old age. Centuries later, she was reborn.
