Irma

By Sona Maple

Irma is a spiritual story about the animals who live in the Valley Below the Mountain, where they coexist in symbiosis—in mutual interaction and understanding without prejudice. Irma is an earthworm who, despite her tiny stature, leaves a deep mark on her spiritual journey and also on the lives of everyone involved.

The human soul enters the narrative indirectly, introduced as the "Non-Animal" facing their own life trials, limitations, and social pressures, and whose identity is revealed as the story culminates. Irma, throughout her journey among all the animals in the Valley Below the Mountain, learns how the Kingdom of Nature symbolizes the unbounded authenticity of and connection to the Universe. With their kind and humorous interactions, the animals demonstrate spiritual and moral concepts through greater empathy and benevolence in contrast to the dogmatic and often unforgiving world of the Non-Animals. The animals lovingly broach and discuss important issues concerning diverse and controversial topics of the human world, which they gradually learn are closer to their own lives than they originally thought. Simultaneously and unwittingly, they guide the reader to tap into the most precious inner wellspring of all beings: intuition.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Tellwell Talent
• Release date: Jul 21, 2023
• ISBN: 9780228886730

Sona Maple

Sona Maple M.Eng. is a Canadian author who was born in Slovakia. She has a master's degree in engineering and a bachelor's degree in management.Sona has been writing since she was a small child, with her primary focus being artistic descriptions of nature, poems, new age concepts, and storytelling. She is dedicated to spiritual teaching and the application of positive thinking to everyday activities. In doing so, she uses various techniques to harmonize body and mind. Love and kindness as healing methods, emanating towards every cell of the Earth, have an irreplaceable role for her. She is a big advocate of protecting natural habitats.In her spare time, Sona plays guitar, djembe, and drums, and enjoys going on hikes with her spouse and her dog.website: sonamaple.ca

Book preview

Copyright © 2023 by Sona Maple

Translation of the text from the original Slovak: Sona Maple, M.Eng.

Copyedited by: Dan Varrette

Front cover design: Miriama Jakubcova

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other non-commercial uses permitted by copyright law.

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Tellwell Talent

www.tellwell.ca

ISBN

978-0-2288-8672-3 (Paperback)

978-0-2288-8673-0 (eBook)

Table of Contents

Preface

Chapter 1. Storm

Chapter 2. Cornfield

Chapter 3. Pride

Chapter 4. Midsummer Full Moon

Chapter 5. Strength

Chapter 6. Time

Chapter 7. Gift

Chapter 8. Changeability

Chapter 9. Cohesion

Chapter 10. Truth

Chapter 11. Colourfulness

The One Non-Animal

Chapter 12. Vibration

Chapter 13. Strength, Part 2

Chapter 14. Disengagement

The Interconnection of the Non-Animal

Chapter 15. Elements

Chapter 16. Destiny

Chapter 17. Coincidence

Chapter 18. Home

Chapter 19. Contrast

Chapter 20. Desire

Chapter 21. Origin

Chapter 22. Self-Love

The Estrangement of the Non-Animal

Chapter 23. Transcendence

Chapter 24. Cover

Chapter 25. Tower

Chapter 26. Trust

Chapter 27. Love

Chapter 28. Dejection

Chapter 29. Revival

Chapter 30. Authenticity

Chapter 31. Transformation

The Guiding of the Non-Animal

Chapter 32. Variability

Chapter 33. Duality

Chapter 34. Unification

Chapter 35. Probability

Chapter 36. Will

Chapter 37. Reconciliation

Chapter 38. Self-Suggestion

The Manifestation of the Non-Animal

Chapter 39. Ego

Chapter 40. Inhibition

Chapter 41. Empathy

Chapter 42. Integrity

Chapter 43. Patterns

The Focus of the Non-Animal

Chapter 44. Acceptation

Chapter 45. Cycle

Chapter 46. Illusion

Chapter 47. Controversy

Chapter 48. Chronicle

Chapter 49. Value

Chapter 50. Self-Control

Chapter 51. Circle

The Selection of the Non-Animal

Chapter 52. Intention

Chapter 53. Awareness

Chapter 54. Mirror

Chapter 55. Jealousy

Chapter 56. Service

Chapter 57. Innovation

Chapter 58. Elimination

Chapter 59. Shift

Chapter 60. Remoteness

Chapter 61. Contribution

Chapter 62. Calling

Chapter 63. Simplicity

Chapter 64. Shock

Chapter 65. Clarification

Chapter 66. Reorientation

The Reaching Out by the Non-Animal

Chapter 67. Individual Perspective

Chapter 68. Alleviation

Chapter 69. So Long!

Chapter 70. Despair

Chapter 71. Search

Chapter 72. Ash

Chapter 73. Connection

Chapter 74. Period

Chapter 75. Embracing

Chapter 76. Goodbye

Glossary

About the Author

Difficult moments, hardship, and struggle

have brought forth a verbal bubble.

Thanks to you, Zuzanka, my lovely wife

I got the chance to bring uncommon Irma to life.

Hany, my little dog, warmed my feet

while the spirit guides worked through my thoughts with every beat.

Beloved Mother Earth,

I thank You from the bottom of my heart for Your support and rebirth.

Preface

The most difficult times of darkness or uncertainty often reveal and open up a wellspring of goodness that has otherwise been invisible—imperceptible, especially when we’re constricted by the heaviness of various life events. Ironically, transformative epochs that reshape our perceptions are usually triggered during challenging situations.

It was a few years back when my spouse and I were going through overwhelming circumstances and the last spark of motivation seemed to have burned out. The intense spiritual work we engaged in, which included meditating several times a day, was not producing the results we initially expected and hoped for. An inner voice, however, was relentlessly propelling us forward and whispering about the start of a positive turn of our conditions.

One early evening, when my thoughts were accompanied by the tapping of rain, my wife asked me to tell her a story. A story that can tune into a higher, better vibration and improve one’s outlook. That was the beginning of Irma, a spiritual story about an earthworm, which opened the door to fresh possibilities and enlightening horizons. The falling raindrops suddenly felt not like melancholic touches of a weeping Earth but a catalyst for the change to come.

Irma is not an ordinary story of an earthworm, a single small creature. It brings together a diverse cast of characters who raise controversial social issues through their interactions with each other. Paradoxically, there are no controversial topics in the Kingdom of Nature, and the kindly attitude of the animal representatives is at the core of the established harmony in Valley Below the Mountain, where everyone is welcome and can flourish, reaching their potential without any restrictions or judgements. The naturalness of the valley’s inhabitants and the interconnectedness of their innate essences indicate that the spiritual dimension lives in functional coexistence with the physical dimension.

My long-term and deep passion of engaging in spirituality, positive thinking, astral projection, and the energetic systems of beings (e.g., auras, chakras, meridians, the harmonization of mind through meditation, and many more) has greatly inspired my work and the content of this book.

Mother Nature, the cradle of life as the engulfing cycle of existence and rebirth, has always been a refuge for me, a sanctuary that has unfailingly spread its arms wide and provided me with mental cleansing. The elements of nature have run through my every cell and taught me that nothing is ever wasted. Every life event is ultimately meaningful even though meaning might at first escape deciphering and float in an anxious mind like a speck of dust. Yet, its gradual accretions have sooner or later drawn attention to themselves through the nudges from the positive foundation of my intuition: my – Higher Self.

Irma is also a tribute to this beautiful planet, which is our home, and each and every one of its fragments deserve the same reverence. This is no ordinary spiritual story to me. It has autobiographical components embedded in it, and it links the animal world to the Non-Animals, or we humans, contrastingly showing how one can function diversely in an identical space.

I believe Irma can be a boon for anyone who is wallowing in blackness or needs to recharge with a splash of joy and positivity. It exhibits a whole new perspective for everyone, and it imposes no limitations with its open-mindedness. The narratives don’t push or support individualistic truths. They don’t categorize or label anything. Rather, like a gentle breeze, they just whisper that our best resource in the search for personal truth while going through life’s lessons is to turning to our Higher Self. In this way, even a clouded corner may become illuminated, allowing complex sensations to penetrate across the layers of awareness.

Our life path can be thorny; nevertheless, we are never alone on it, though deceptive it may seem. Therefore, I thank my spirit guides and Higher Self, who have stood by my side and set the pace for my flowing inspiration.

Love and kindness are the most powerful healing medicine for the whole planet. Their impact can stir up a tidal wave, affecting generations yet to come and that is something unique and, in principle, quite simple. Thank you to all the souls on the journey to spiritual enlightenment, to the inner truth of love, for all things can become truth, our truth, if we open ourselves to the channel of our Higher Self, our own rhythm, with specific life experiences, exactly as it should be.

Please see the glossary at the end of this book. It includes the most frequently used spiritual terms, which will help you better understand the textual contexts.

1. Storm

The peaceful evening brought the whispering of the trees, the flickering of the grass, and the whistling of the breeze so clearly that at times they seemed to dance together in symbiosis. The exuberant celebrations were also prompted by the massive clouds, which, merging into unified formations, gradually obscured the brilliant light. Dazzling fiery needles crashed into the ground and scattered across the raindrop-laden soil.

The morning light enveloped the surroundings in a soft frost, not very typical for the summer season. However, this did not bother the inhabitants of the Valley Below the Mountain, as demonstrated by the bustling social life already in those early morning hours. The Valley Below the Mountain was wide and expansive. The space boasted diverse plant and tree species, flowing streams, and verdant fields. The animals who lived in it had their worries and joys, but more importantly, each of them fulfilled an indispensable role. The mutual interconnectedness, not only in the ecosystem but also in the communal and social lives, gave many of them a new perspective on common interactions.

The glittering icy dew was not only a feast for the eyes, and certain creatures used it in truly variable ways. Newborn ladybugs who had just taken a few breaths of fresh air were tenaciously gliding across the wet grass leaves. Hundreds of ants were using the slender furrows of water in the soil to deftly swim with their supplies to a new anthill. Irma the earthworm was rapidly trying to reach a large sunflower that was about seven metres away from her dwelling. She had been on the road for about an hour, coated with wet mud that would periodically seep into her small reddish eczematous wounds. The distinct yellow sunflower was the usual initial meeting place for Irma and her best friends. In its shade lurked a lacklustre puddle, which would always form after a heavy downpour. A sharp wind sometimes tore off a couple of sunny petals, providing the perfect means of transportation for tinier individuals or serving as a comfortable floating lounger.

The earthworm was eagerly looking forward to an already wonderfully preordained day with the inseparable party. Sadly, her physical predispositions repeatedly caused her to react in a contradictory manner. The more the pink-coloured existence wanted, the more gravity pressed the motion back. Sometimes it simply felt like Irmy was robbed of a few instants of the day, which just slipped away. In spite of that, whenever the cute string glanced at the swaying stalks during her arduous crawling and breathed deeply of the smell of the damp earth, happiness embraced the whole perspective.

The sun climbed higher and higher, which the creeping critter felt even on her now parched skin. Hedgehog Dezider, Mosquito Omar, and Frog Paw were already splashing in the so-called pond under the sunflower. Irma, in accordance with her meagre means, increased her speed and greeted waving pals with a smile. Gradually, the earthworm managed to cling to the awaiting sunflower leaf and began enjoying the company.

Omar preferred that particular water area as a birthplace for new offspring. The mosquito wasn’t very eloquent and mainly expressed themself by buzzing. Until now, the ever-vibrating insect was unsure of their sex, and the goodhearted earthworm didn’t really remember where she had met them Presumably, the bloodsucking being had just joined the group during an important journey of self-discovery.

Hedgehog Dezider was a vagabond who lived a bohemian lifestyle. The shrewd fella collected everything that came his way on sharp pegs and then traded or auctioned off the wondrous objects. The master of bartering came up with some truly lucrative pieces using all kinds of effective methods. Using his persistent negotiation skills, the hedgehog succeeded in amassing a fortune on supposedly magical dried roots, miraculous stones, and evergreen fronds. Not surprisingly, after a while, the cunning guy had to tactically evade and even flee his clients.

However, Irma remembered well how she had come to know Frog Paw. One evening, while she contemplated the vastness of the universe, when the ground was so dry that even the hopping of a small flea living within two metres of Irma’s house could be heard, the starry panorama suddenly wasn’t so clear. The tiny string jerked back and, in a second, vaguely saw large, round eyes and a long lolling tongue above herself.

Oh, heck! echoed from the weirdo. Sorry, worm. I was jumping home for dinner and unexpectedly slipped on something invisible and mostly dried up. Ah!

Irma had been unable to speak for quite some time due to a severe concussion, so she fortunately couldn’t respond to the insulting words. Regardless, the unanticipated ambush turned into a memorable night, and the earthworm received a friend of sorts from the heavens.

The narrow holes in the floating sunflower petals created a brilliant view of the pond’s muddy bottom. Irma squinted with one eye and observed the layered clay. Grinning through uneven teeth, she bit into the succulent green again, letting the noises in the distance carry her mind away. The adjacent stalks provided the perfect seclusion while protecting her delicate eczematous skin from the sun. An indescribable feeling of comfort and bliss entered every single cell. It was extremely easy to become fully engrossed in chaotic concepts and ideas until the webs of thought were strictly isolated from the happenings in the Valley Below the Mountain. This self-created sphere did not even recognize the conspicuous silence, and the singing of the breeze with the lapping of the unobtrusive currents were Irma’s only companions.

It wasn’t until a sharp beam slammed into her flesh that the dreamer opened the eyes. The realization that the charming pond beneath the sunflowers showed no life and that her closest friends were gone was shocking. The tiny gal looked around for a while, licking her dirty teeth and straining the three hairs on her petite head. Darkness surrounded the entire vista. It was as if the sky had embraced the night and Irma could no longer see the shore. The grey and black colour refracted and at the same time absorbed any supply of coppery radiance. The earthworm began to paddle the yellow petal in an oscillating motion. At that point, she would have really appreciated it if her belly weren’t habitually so voracious and the holes wouldn’t let the murky water through. In an effort to alleviate the situation, Irmy stuck scraps of food from mouth into the small openings, hoping some secret engine would kick in.

I have a feeling someone’s been dumped by their pals, an ironic voice boomed from the blackness.

The momentarily self-imagined reptile didn’t pay much attention to the comment, as not infrequently her vivid imagination produced various shapes, voices, and symbols. Humming, the string continued to paddle along, giggling inwardly at the juicy bounty growing on the shore. Abruptly, an unforeseen piercing intake of breath transformed into a burning sensation from nostrils. The ripples turned to waves, and the soft, soggy earth resonated in a near distance. A rocking movement spun the flowery vessel and carried it aloft. Irma felt free despite the dangerous circumstances and laughed flightily. For at least a few hundredths of a second, the clouds were closer. The impact on the cool sediment was all the less painful. The gloom was broken by the sunshine, and the poor adventurer, with a slight shiver, could do nothing more than watch the receding majestic monster.

Wolf Dark was a familiar figure in the Valley Below the Mountain. He had been causing fear and tension for years, and no one ever knew when the devil would appear. His monstrous arrival was always unexpected and unpredictable, and it would shake the entire area for a long spell. Tradition had it that the terrifying wolf had signed a pact with the evil spirits of the woods after losing a beloved partner in a fight with a neighbouring gruesome pack. Dark had taken over the mountains, although not in an adequate way.

Irma fell deeper and deeper into an unwanted sleep. Disappointment gripped her pint-sized heart, hitting new emotional lesions like a grass whip. Being an earthworm had once again lost its viability, and at the memory of the faithful friends, her swollen narrowed eyes let out a ready-made flood. A soothing, kind voice reverberated from somewhere in the lostness, projecting somehow solely positive feelings and images. The meaningfulness of the associations spurred Irma’s rest and wittingly distracted her from the torturous clenching.

A thunderstorm of circumstances opened the gateway to a new world.

2. Cornfield

The long golden-brown leaves reflected the touches of powerful elements shining in the boundless azure sky. The soil hadn’t felt a lukewarm touch in days and was cracking in places. The huge gaps in the ground often made insurmountable barriers for small bugs and caterpillars. The animals, however, lived in symbiosis and cohesion with each other and aided all those in need on a daily basis.

Irma gazed admiringly at her new home, a magnificent sprawling cornfield. Gripping the furry patch she was on, the little one achieved a view and an enjoyment like never before. Everything was instantaneously accelerated and possible. Although the breeze whistled much more than usual, irritating the earthworm’s skin at a rapid rate, she cheered with bliss through her pinkish cheeks. The string giggled and squealed with excitement. The three standing hairs resting upon her forehead swayed from side to side, occasionally getting stuck between the protruding teeth. Cheeky comical gestures and facial expressions repeatedly sculpted a grin for Vole Barty. The field rodent moved skillfully beside AJ the Rabbit, cautiously avoiding his hasty leaps. The vole’s distinguished whiskers maintained the necessary balance and equilibrium, as his tail had failed to do its job since the terrible squabble with Stork Bok.

The last several days of exploring the cornfield had brought the most constructive pastime. Irma was clearly experiencing one of the most thrilling eras in her life. The agonizing anguish and sadness of being disappointed by her friends at the tall sunflower had grown into tremendous gratitude. For the umpteenth time, the Nature Gods and Fairies showed the significance of each event. Forgiving and accepting the situation with love and humility materialized a fresh and possibly brighter stage of existence.

The collective cooperation of the cornfield inhabitants was breathtaking. Although the yellow vastness was part of the Valley Below the Mountain, its differences markedly attracted seekers of a new home base and simultaneously prompted animal tourism. Never before had the earthworm seen a giant spider weave a masterpiece for their neighbour, who was now drying medicinal herbs on it.

AJ had long been a volunteer at the field school for young critters. The athletic bunny taught students to jump over hurdles and dig. And that was just some of the talents he was delighted to spread further. Of course, it was a must to carefully assess the physical attributes of the pupils and adapt the intensity of the training to that. AJ’s naive (to the point of infantile) approach to living had brought along many friends and enemies alike. It was surely exhilarating when Irma anchored herself around friend’s long whitish ears or grey fur, exploring everything around. Still, the tiny lady was far from knowing all the residents of the cornfield, which naturally produced a shy tickling at every opportunity. Yet, the environment didn’t appear foreign, and the newfound souls were all too familiar.

Twilight was often ritually the most entertaining part of the daily cycle. Invariably, exuberant summer celebrations were held at various spots in the cornfield when the last rays of the sun were the only illumination accompanied by the famed glow of fireflies. The animals drank delicious extracts from the corn roots and danced until dawn to the serenades of crickets, the tapping of woodpeckers, or the performances of the field school students. Everyone had the chance to demonstrate their talents and gifts. Singing, rhetorical speeches, poetry, flying, engraving in the ground—everything simply had its place, and no limits were set to anything.

Home…home…how beautiful and sweet you are.

You smell of innovation and yet are so close, native, and motherly!

3. Pride

Irma’s dreamy threads wove one through the other. Here and there a tickle flitted across her folded body. Sometimes the astral traveller perceived nothing and from time to time absently watched the misty goings-on in the miniature abode. It was strange to look at herself, immersed somewhere in the unknown and simultaneously curled up on the leafy couch.

A sharp rumble shook out the earthworm’s atrophied structures. Her narrow sight blinked in alarm, like the lighthouse that Irmy’s dear mommy had often told her about. The built-in green window sporadically let out sunrise greetings and at the same time pulled on the peculiar dark and orange shutters without cause. It often took a long moment for the string to awaken and reconnect with own physique. The monotonous crawl stretched the time interval, but the descent from above down a longish bract resembling a slide connected the cheerful roller with the surrounding action instantly. The gorgeous orange curtains covering the whole window mediated a blissful vista. In daylight, they looked even more graceful, rich, and fabulous. Irma bared teeth eagerly. Her infantile mind immediately began to toy with the idea of acquiring those fabulous shutters so they could become the fashionable decoration of the green house.

Suddenly, the earthworm’s newly gained curtains spoke. Hey, you! Are you just going to stand there or are you going to help me free myself from this weed?

Teeth hid beneath orange and pink, slightly swollen lips, and straining green eyes opened wide. The drape swayed from side to side, and only after some latency it did take the poised form of a magnificent butterfly.

Can you hear me? Help me at once! the desired material, actually a butterfly of some kind, squeaked. I need my magic wings treated immediately. Pfff!

Oh my Lord Corncracker! Hang in there, honey! I’ll get help! the roller rescuer screamed back in apprehension while shivering.

Considering the whole situation, Irma concluded that it would be too complicated to make the never-ending two-meter journey to get aid. Exerting all strength, she climbed the soft dandelion stairs to the welcoming dwelling modified by the cornfield pals to the petite proportions. Common sense cunningly conjured up an image of a stem whistle stored in a straw shelf.

The stem whistle was a symbol of friendship crafted during a recent exuberant night full of fun and socializing. The earthworm had been given it in case of emergency by a thoughtful Barty and AJ. Irmy puffed up spasmodically and exhaled. The whistle made a melodious note, carried on and on by the birds’ chirping. It wasn’t long before there was the typical stomping and commotion of loyal friends outside the dwelling.

Hi, guys! the string shouted from the very top. I greatly appreciate that you came. As you can see, there’s been an accident! Could you please help out?

The rabbit and vole were quick to recognize the gravity of the situation and ran to the sides to assist. With incredible rapidity, reinforcements came from every quarter as well as curious stares from the inhabitants of the cornfield. An army of ants rocked the ground, and the commands to form a solid ladder sounded really authoritative. However, the spirited shouts of a goodhearted Ant Swimco proved to be very motivating. The rescue activity was made rather unpleasant by the cursing of the stranded butterfly, yet freeing him had a higher priority than soothing the heavy hearts of the team.

The hardworking platoon freed the foolhardy flier from the sharp branch and then systematically tossed him into the air. It looked appalling; nonetheless, everything had been planned down to the last detail. The terrified bellow from the vicinity was replaced by thunderous clapping as the butterfly landed on a silken pollen bed that had been predictably arranged ahead of time by worker bees.

The mental shock had probably cast the egocentric butterfly into a sweet unconsciousness. The participants of the heroic act felt an ironic sense of relief. And at the same time, they scanned the huge expanse of wings with regret, as one of them seemed severely deteriorated.

The centralized sun was scorching the air to high degree. Hours passed, and caring Irmy persistently applied lukewarm compresses to extended antennae. At irregular intervals, the wounded creature shuffled his skinny feet; however, it took quite a while for him to come back to awareness. Tears sprinkled the hard soil, and sobs foretold first utterance.

Have not the noble handsome fellow demonstrated yet a sublimer passage of his soul? the earthworm wondered in hope.

Oh my! Natural God of Appearance, what have you done to me? the patient cried out loud. I’m utterly ruined. Life is over for me. Ahhhh! I have always been the moooost magnificent and wonderful in the region! And now? This is sooo devastating! I’m just a vile cripple.

A sullen snarl burst from the young lady. How can you say something like that?

You don’t get it, of course! Look at you. Gosh! Just a hideous spook. Bleh! You’ll never experience the glory of beauty. But what about me? I am in this world to embellish it.

You are on this planet mainly to beautify it with your energy and actions, the little one retorted calmly. That is to be the basis of your being. A kind word, a smile, and gratitude should be the fundamental elements of your day. These fancy wings are supposed to be a symbol of freedom and positive mental concepts, and you ought to enjoy the fresh breeze to obtain the Chi into your energetic system. It is the purest energy that emanates from a higher dimension. And by the way, Vole Barty spent long hours carving solid stalks for you; our cornfield chief, the cellar spider Barefoot, made spiderwebs; and a group of ladybugs weaved your broken wing. Not to mention a team of ants! I am so sorry about what happened to you. Truly! Try to relax for a little while longer and then fly free!

The earthworm turned her pink body away and headed for the dwelling. The early evening crept stealthily into the picturesque countryside. The roller sipped horseradish tea, taking in the vibe of the moon’s golden outline in the sky. Psychological musings about her infancy carried all the useless notions away. It took a moment for Irma to return attention to the physical realm. The gentle tapping of deft tentacles on the window frames drew the wandering soul progressively back in. A massive torso blocked any view of the falling darkness.

Sorry to disturb you. I just wanted…to say… a dejected voice said from somewhere outside. I feel immensely embarrassed because of my behaviour. Thank you for being the only one to tell me the truth. Please, thank your friends for me as well. I appreciate all of your help very much. My name is Butterfly PrettyEye, and I hope to see you again soon.

The huge, renovated wings fluttered and dipped into the coming night. Smiling, Irma pressed lips to violet mug and continued sipping the delicious, spiced tea in a distinctly loud manner. Grateful eyes reflected the bright silhouette of the glowing natural lantern on the endless horizon.

True self-worth shattered the roots of vested pride.

A new perspective propelled the renewed wings to fly even higher and deeper.

4. Midsummer Full Moon

The night sang and danced with notable flickering patterns. The round full moon lay so low that it illuminated the cornfield like daylight. In continuity with its refined fragility, it created spectacular nooks for shyer individuals too. Everything formed an even clearer picture than usual, yet the veil of abstruseness did not allow one to perceive the events with complete precision.

Irma advanced symmetrically through the golden tunnel, nonchalantly watching the floating tail that trailed a bit behind. Shimmering lights painted celestial schematic allegories while dictating the direction of travel. The natural elements revealed concealed power with exuberant whizzing that occasionally lifted the drenched earth into the air. With every breath, the string felt the reality of the present occasion, although every aspect imitated a rather dreamlike state.

The Air Fairies flitted around the visitor, making magical gestures and pirouettes with their colourful, hovering, almost tangible shells. They laughed naughtily, chased each other, and cleverly dodged the curious gaze of the excited guest. Frankly, it was not simple to identify the fairies’ exact position. The main indicator was a whistling breeze with mere sparkles. Sporadically, the cheerful air elements joined a symphony of Fairies, Virtuosos who treated all the plants and minerals with pleasing notes of graceful music.

Irmy watched in amazement as the dried branches were nourished and returned to their natural cycle. Ancient sirens and water spirits cooperatively cleaned the nearby pond. Their green-blue nursing surges did wonders. For the first time, the earthworm could spot the bottom of the always murky water. The dark and green ferns and algae harboured weird creatures many had never known existed. It was then when the string realized where the mysterious mussel-like formations came from, serving mostly as cover from the violent impacts of raindrops.

It’s incredible to perceive this interconnectedness. Wow! There are plentiful particles the critters have no idea about, don’t notice, yet they are part of every single second, Irma mumbled to herself, spreading thankful recognition to the unbound universe.

Midsummer flies cast light upon the bracken blossoms leading to a huge cave that very few of the valley’s inhabitants dared to step into. Irma’s mom, too, had warned of the site’s dangers with nighttime stories at well-attended earthworm ceremonies. She had claimed that there was a grisly giant living in the cave that was once an earthworm. Based on his bad manners and aggressive nature, the chief, the now deceased Rain, sent the outcast into exile. The giant took up residence in a cavern, where evil spirits possessed the poor fella and incited hatred against all earthworms. Irma had been terrified of that sinister figure since she was a young worm, and a panic-stricken fear of all colossal creatures took root in her.

As time went on, the facts came to light, and the miniature crawler became less and less sure of mom’s judgement. Eventually, each animal family had a giant living in underground tunnels. A rejected fawn, or an angry hedgehog, represented mere crumbs of the generated stories. It simply became less believable that so many ogres lived inside the damp chambers. Still, the lingering smells and mysterious cave echoes stirred respect. Truthfully, only courageous and necessary missions were directed near the location.

Astonishment sprang from Irma’s levitating body as a gigantic figure appeared from behind a sizeable rock. The enormous hands, resembling spruce branches, held a lengthy stick. The earthworm mobilized a grating scream that had accumulated inside her microscopic throat. The vocal cords were interrupted, though, by the whistling of bizarre creatures meddling beneath the giant’s enormous feet, obviously discussing certain matters together, raising funny voices. The undersized goblins exuded authoritativeness, and even the huge giant with his bowed overgrown head nodded submissively. Occasionally, he would groan and mumble loudly. The Dwarves stretched short yet deft arms high to brighten the roots of the panoramic trees with glowing lanterns.

The roots were punching into the cave roof, surely producing tremors that could be heard in the neighbouring area. The small guys were busily wielding sharp saws to guide the path of the intertwined shoots. The mighty giant laboriously, as instructed, loosened the soil with the wooden bat directly above the affected locality.

Various legends have been told about the goblins. Some extolled the positive qualities, and a few pointed out the negative traits. Their erratic nature and changeable character have been, in fact, a deterrent. What was certain, however, was that they fulfilled an essential role in the overall habitat and worked in cooperation with the Nature Spirits. Trade and coal mining formed the priority portfolio of the calculating beings. It was said that the collaboration with the Forest Fairies spurred Dwarves into positive action. Step by step, the discovered coal began to be used to pleasurably heat the ground in the bitter cold. The healing thermal geysers and a variety of winter sports attracted beasts from far and wide. As a result, variable animal species had the unique possibility to get to know each other. It didn’t matter whether they were relaxing in the nice warm steam or having a snowball fight in the hot pool.

The wolf pack howled incessantly at the approaching moon shrouded in a choppy mist. Midnight Destiny Fairies blessed the land, air, and water and twirled in magical spells. The longest night of the year was far from over, and the regenerative process had plenty of time to take hold of every single natural cell. In the twinkling infinity of the current ruler of the sky, the dance of the trees transmitted an impressive rustle to the entire region. The notes of the harp melodiously hugged the earthworm’s vibrations, twisting the loving discharges to the beat. Herbal elixirs nourished the thirsty creatures without the necessity of requests. The magical power dulled the heavy thoughts and soothed their physical forms.

The blessed roller was blissfully brimming with enthusiasm and joy, moving from all worries, grievances, and mental blocks. Accepting the energies of the Nature Gods and Fairies, Irma drifted in a swinging exhilaration.

The impending rays of the morning drew the celebrating dancer into a golden tunnel accompanied by tickling beams. The experience-laden body was reverently placed by doting glimmers on the petal couch. Without further ado, the ethereal components flew off into the unknown with a joyful swish. The healing chant lingered for a long time, cutting off Irma’s hearing from the physical world and preventing her from awakening.

The Choir of Fairies

We drift through space without limits;

heavenly life will never be like a prison, even for minutes.

We constantly breathe different dimensions,

so each of us has unlimited versions.

We know, we absorb, and we desire.

In the meantime, love to dance and let ourselves admire!

The gained progressive knowledge

is setting nature’s healing into high gear with courage.

We’re at all times here for thee, the homeland vast.

We toast you—may you always be fruitful, graceful, and forever last!

5. Strength

For what seemed like days, Irma’s absent perception evoked a thoughtful reverie. After a very long time, unpleasant, stubbing memories surfaced, fortunately circled by the earthworm’s mother’s kind energy. The midsummer full moon induced numerous unusual phenomena. It was as if the roller were suddenly forced to reassess the events that were upsetting her personal stability and peace of mind. The more effort she made to forget and repress, the more real the images of the past grew.

In retrospect, Irma could clearly see herself as a naive baby, crawling home through the dusty road from school. The adventurer’s priority was focused on the exploration of an uncharted area on a regular basis. Nothing caused such joy as discovering any natural miracle that was placed in her path. Accepting introversion bit by bit didn’t feel so depressing, though sporadically, fleeting glimpses of playing peers stung like sharp stalks. Subtle attempts to become a member of the popular group unfailingly ended in fiasco. Sometimes the unwanted intruder was directly asked to leave, or was totally ignored. The critters just sloppily and callously moved on to another location with torturing, arrogant giggles.

Tough times! Regardless, the determined spirit had to cope and grapple with it every day. No one would have predicted that circumstances could be even more acute. Irma clung to the adage that time would gradually heal every gash and waited impatiently for that big, positive change to come. And indeed, the marked alteration of daily routine arrived when a new classmate, Weasel Ava, joined the class.

Ava had a wide-ranging impact, and at first glance she was a representation of leadership in a captivating, humorous way. The easygoing mammal wowed everyone in a hundredth of a second, and the amiable earthworm secretly believed that a better era was dawning for her.

Volatile masses fashioned striking designs. Irmy knew that the impressive spectacle had been deliberately prepared for her by beloved companions, the clouds. It was very common, and a sort of gesture of gratitude, to lie on her back on the way from school and marvel at the wondrous artistic show. The fragrant, expansive grassland scenically completed the caressing particles of the touching sensations.

What are you lying around for, you cripple? Oh my Lord Meadows Vast! the familiar, weaselly voice echoed, accompanied by the roars of her fans.

A shiver of terror seized the little girl.

Hey! Can’t you hear? I ask you. What are you wallowing around for, crossing our steps?

The distressing voice rumbled like a freezing tornado. On most occasions, the earthworm found it very troublesome to cope with crisis situations, which often resulted in maximal paralysis.

I immediately claim that not only you are ugly and a threat to us with your dirty, filthy skin but that you’re also stupid. From my neck of the woods, animals like you end up in specialized facilities where they are kept in the trunk of an old pine tree and then dried on a pine cone. We don’t need such weak and disgusting individuals here. That’s what my father says, and I’ll just add that he’s indescribably wise!

A ruckus among the youngsters reverberated through the meadow undergrowth. Unempathetic stares at each other fostered mutual cruel agreement.

Take the stinky and tie her against that rock over there! In a moment, the sun will be supreme and will burn this trash to ashes, the weasel Ava said.

The poor unwanted wretch struggled in vain and pleaded heartily for help. Before Irma realized it, her limp little body was tied to the hot rock. Her throat went dry, and the helpless string submissively closed her eyes and resigned herself to the approaching fate. Minute after minute passed, and time was running out. Far and wide, not a living soul was near to aid the earthworm. Alone, on the brink of the other realm, at the mercy of the inevitable…

Take me, please, Forest spirits, Fairies! Life here on Earth is meaningless for me anyway! she sobbed plaintively. I’d love to blend in with the wind and see the fields, meadows, flowers, mountains, and streams of the unlimited valley.

The elements of nature lovingly listened to the heartfelt plea. The emitting rays retreated behind the whitish puffs so as not to cause harm to the wounded skin. A heart-shaped cloud obliterated the relentless burning and suddenly unleashed a pleasant shower of rain. Straight

Reviews for Irma

[charlierobertson1966 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The book has an absolutely amazing vibe and verbal expressions. It has plenty of philosophical and poetic features, thus it is not the easiest read, although the author made the entire text very accessible with her kind, loving approach.

[Adam Brockiw · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A beautiful message of love and positivity. We need this kind of vibe!

[juliadiverse77 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The book is like a walk through a poetic garden, in which one laughs and cries. There is so much love and faith in every word. It definitely fostered positive feelings in me that there is goodness in this world.

[Frankie · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The book really addresses all the social issues, but also the moral compass of the beings themselves. However, the reader is not overwhelmed by this. I guess we really have to go through a variety of situations to be able to empathize with them, but the book at least points out the importance of empathy towards everyone and everything, which is wonderful. I absolutely recommend Irma.

[Andrew · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

It was very fascinating to read this book. In the end it connected so many ideas mentioned in the text which I was surprised about. It definitely charged me with something positive and gave me an inner hope for better times on our planet, and in everyday life. Conclusion - I want to live in a cornfield!

[Zuzana · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Irma is not just a book, but a magical work of art full of kindness and the stories, the poetic parts and the Non-Animal, are simply excellent and remarkable. If you are not in a good mood or struggling with adversity in life, Irma is sure to bring you back a positive attitude and her light and positivity will penetrate to you like a cosmic golden ray to dissolve all the heavy thoughts. I was surprised by how artistic the book is and the poetic parts are very deep, emotional in places, but always beautiful and ultimately motivating. Irma holds up a mirror to human society, but she does it not with criticism, but with great tenderness and hope. Just wow!

[mari · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Love, talent and kindness are perhaps the most amazing attributes that a human being can offer and thanks to which this world can flourish. This book is like an inexhaustible source of positive energy, awareness and perception beyond one's comfort zone. I thank the author for every single word that has enriched my existence.

[Jimmonroe · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I like spiritual books and also astral travel. In this book I found a combination of everything and a lot more. Cool stuff!

[John Marcin · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I was looking for a fun read and was drawn to the colourful design of the book cover. What I didn't expect was to not only get a good dose of entertainment, but also an artistic experience. Don't expect dullness or ordinariness.

[tomyjenkins1999 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The stories have so many cool characters. Each one is specific, with their own interesting backgrounds and unique personality attributes. There is clearly no limit to the imagination in the book. The poetic features are divine.

[Ava Blendlink · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Funny, sad, emotional and memorable. Thank you for a beautiful experience that will resonate in me for a long time.

[taylorgold · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The characters are very sweet and I quickly grew to like them. Every topic of human society is unfolded here with great tenderness. I liked that even mental illnesses are not viewed with any prejudice in the book, but with pure uniqueness.

[eleanor conor · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Irma is greatly unconventional book for open-minded people who are looking for something more deeper, diverging from the ordinality.

[Alice Thomasin · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I got the book as a Christmas present. It is quite thick, so I didn't think I would read it so quickly. I was pleasantly surprised by the metaphorical and poetic text, which feels incredibly positive despite the diverse range of emotions it opens up in depth. The maturity of the book's expressive language and message is quite unlike anything we are used to in contemporary literature.

[Susan · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The book Irma has been marvelous company for me during sleepless nights. The stories carry so many deep thoughts and open up really diverse issues of life. I like the idea of the interconnectedness of beings and also think about how people can make each other unhappy, and so some are pushed to leave their home, family, and the country they were born in. Irma has a powerful message and love that needs to be brought to light worldwide. People need to talk about matters that don't concern them and approach them with love and hope in the same way that the author of the book has evidently approached it herself.

[dannyblackhead00 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Very cool and kind form of expression. The characters are delineated so greatly and also the entire Valley below the mountain that it is hard to come back to this regular world.

[Kevin Tonkson · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I admire the empathy of the author, because really, many of us don't deal with anything what doesn't concern us. This world is full of ignorant people, and it is the book Irma that makes us see our environment more empathetically and collectively. Not in a pushy way but it somehow has a power to point out a new and better direction. The characters are very entertaining and I like the philosophical elements.

[Lizz Turner · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Wording of this book is extraordinary. It is an impressive intellectual work filled with art and positive thoughts.

[chantalrogers44 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I admire the author's phraseology and depth of her heart. I have had an honour to meet the author in San Francisco and she signed my book too. She is a very modest and kind person. I was so happy to read the book afterwards. It is an amazing work of metaphorical art filled with the unlimited kindness, emotions, social problems and empathy. LOVED each and every part of it! Excellent!

[tommyrybanik · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book is unique, it evolves so many exceptional thoughts. It has motivated me to persist in difficult situation and I will definitively revisit some chapters.

[Petra Weber · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I love the adventurous nature of Irma and her friends. They are so attentive to each other, caring and loving. Why do not people usually have that kind of friendship? The description of the nature is beautiful and the text is very poetic and philosophical.

[ella timbawa · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I am very surprised by the maturity of the author's soul. The book is very eccentric and I was positively shocked at how many deep thoughts it has in it.

[Jamie · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I love the idea that we each have our own authentic truth and don't need any label to be connected to ourselves. We are who we are and at the same time, we are all one interconnected whole that should support and stand by each other on our life's journey. Awesome thoughts!

[Kim · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Each story has a specific title that addresses a particular issue or emotion, and at the end of each chapter there is a philosophical section that in a way closes the chapter and opens the following ones. It's really a unique elaboration. I admire how all the parts are interconnected and the book is very engaging.

[mickeytissue · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I don't think I've read a book like this before. A combination of philosophy, spirituality, poetry, fiction that results in a complete transformation of the human mind. I am blown away!

[Jessie · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I think many will expand their imaginations with this book, and most importantly, connect with the inner child they have forgotten in the grown-up world. The parts with the Non-Animal and the gradual revelation of who they really are appealed to me. They are absolutely fantastic! I connected sooo much with the feelings of the Non-Animal, and I must say, in a way the book Irma helped me to see my own situation from a different angle. Animal's stories are humorous, philosophical and very pleasant.

[beckytenderrose · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The stories are humorous, enlightening and some very emotional. I wouldn't have thought that a combination of so many aspects could be included in one book. The Valley Below the Mountain is a place where probably all of us would like to live.

[Peter Wundbach · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I'm glad that LGBT couples are incorporated in the book and not directly highlighted at all. It makes everything feel very natural, pure and beautiful. Diversity and equality are there as a natural part of life. Everyone is part of the whole! Love that idea!

[tinaknack67 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The maturity of the work and linguistic expression is astonishing. The book and the stories are original and you can feel the emotions the author must have gone through, as she indicates in the preface. I really like this authenticity and finesse.

[adam tinkl · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I think this book increased my empathy and also IQ - the wording is exceptional.