I saw a statistic the other day that said around 50% of the people in Iceland believe in fairies. I am very proud of Iceland. Like the descendants of the Vikings, my people also have a tradition of small beings who live in the forests and along the streams. There are Native American versions of leprechauns all across this land. Which is fine by me because in my universe there is lots of room for all kinds of sprites and spirits, tricksters and angels, coyotes and ravens. The world I live in I share with a host of wise and wonderful creatures. How dull life would be without them. If this sounds a little strange to you then let me encourage you to open your heart up to the playful side of spirituality. Don’t get too stuck in reality. Come over to the other 50%, those of us who believe a little whimsy is good for the soul.

~ Steven Charleston

Elf Garden, Iceland – photo by Ragnhildur Jonsdottir