I remember there being something in the woods, right across from my house, and I visited it when I was a young girl. So magical, so beautiful; you'd think it was influenced by those with the most clever imaginations. The odd characters I was welcomed by were nonetheless sincere, original, and eager to show me their world, and I couldn't have been more eager to see it.
I experienced an adventure I longed for and I didn't want to leave until the evil Red Queen ruined it with her trials and decapitations of her minions. Then she wanted my head off and I was rushed from the beautiful world, back to… reality.
I remember trying to explain to my sister, Lorina, what had happened, but her imagination was so small and only stuck to whatever the books without pictures and reality had taught told her. She was less than what she could have been and looked down on me for having such a broad mind. She didn't believe a word I had said, only told me that it was a dream because I was asleep during the time she read to me. Though, I didn't remember falling asleep at all nor did I recall waking up.
I made myself believe her and followed her back to the house where I fell asleep and dreamed of something other than the strange, beautiful land I had truly experienced. The land of wonder… Wonderland.
The dreams I have now will never suffice to the one my sister said I had that afternoon in the by the riverbank. It was so realistic, so brilliant, so amazing. I have to admit that even the thrill of the chase by the Red Queen and her minions of playing cards was quite desirable. I do think that she wanted more from me than my head though… seemed like she held some jealousy and hatred against me. Something that she felt against no one else.
Quickly, the hatter saved me from having my head cut off after the croquet game. He was very concentrated on protecting me. Very, very overprotective, he was. He was older than me by ten years, if I'm remembering correctly. He said he had a hat for me… but he never gave it to me. I left too soon. But, he was by far the most unforgettable of all the people I had met.
That is, if I hadn't forgotten the entire place due to growing up and becoming busy.
My life is chaotic now, but certainly enjoyable. I am a teacher as I have been lucky to be so successful in my early adult life. I had just recently celebrated my nineteenth birthday with a surprise party set up by my wonderful sisters.
And so life, reality, has me consumed. I will never remember the place of wonder, of beauty, of imagination. Wonderland.
Or at least I believed I wouldn't.