In a Wonderland they lie, dreaming as days go by, dreaming as summers die: Ever drifting down the stream—lingering in the golden gleam—life, what is it but a dream?
~ Lewis Carrol, Through the Looking Glass, 1871

Often when looking at a reflection in water, I see two layers. My focus is almost always drawn to the light and tangible objects on the surface, but when I stop and refocus my eyes—looking deeper—I see a whole other world existing beneath the water.

When I took this photo, I was looking at the water and plants, watching how the bright sunlight filtered through the glass pavilion. It was beautiful and I stopped to appreciate it. But as I shifted my focus a bit, a whole other world revealed itself on the other side of the water’s surface. It was breathtaking and I actually caught my breath for a moment.

Suddenly, the reflection seemed alive—like I could reach out and touch that other place. The bright blue sky, frame of the glass pavilion, the water lily pads that almost looked like they were floating in air… all of it reflected in the gently rippling, wavering water. It reminded me of a fairy tale—a bit of magic beneath the surface. A surreal, otherworldly place that you could simply slip into and visit.

I find that sometimes the surface is pleasant enough to look at—but when you stop to truly find and admire the unique, quiet beauty beneath it—the kind you didn’t immediately notice—that’s what touches your soul. That’s what lingers and brings meaning. Even if you don’t have the words for it.