Reconstructing

The Creator’s Commission
Marcos Barrios
I walk into the clearing and freeze. The
grass is lush and bright, the sunlight
plays off the trees, a gurgling stream
winds past. I stand there in awe, soaking
in the gorgeous sight. Striding into the
grassy center I sit down, feeling the light
breeze rustle my hair and the sun warm
my skin. I take a breath and smell the
subtle aroma of nearby wildflowers. All
of a sudden I hear a rustle across the
clearing. The branches start to tremble.
Heavy steps thud in the distance.
Chirping fills the air and I see bright
colors flash through the canopy. The dirt
beneath my feet sifts and vibrates. And
then BOOM. An explosion of creatures
leap out of the tree line, pour out of the
sky, erupt from the ground. A flurry of
feathers, scales, and fur of every color fill
the clearing. I crane my head to glimpse
the lumbering beasts towering over me. I
watch as countless small critters scuttle
across the ground. The air buzzes with
the flapping wings of thousands. The
atmosphere pulses with life. I soak in the
wonder and joy of it all.
One of the creatures steps forward. His
muscles glide under his pelt as he takes a
silent step, the light playing against his
spots. He strides towards me, stopping
just within reach. I gaze into his bright
eyes and a flicker of recognition passes
between us. He lowers his front paws
and puts his head to the ground. I stick
out my hand and tenderly place it on his
head…
And then it comes.
An idea.
A word.
A name.
Reconstructing: Fall 2022