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I am hiding my mushroom under my desk. The mushroom absolutely reeks and the soil mixed in the baggie makes it look disgusting. It is unique though. Definitely unlike any mushroom I’ve seen. The stem is a vibrant orange and the head is releasing this brown goop-like liquid. Though it is certainly beautiful, I am afraid to touch it. In order to dig it up, I had to use gloves and an old rusty spade. It’s beauty is enthralling to me, and there is always a part of my brain that says “touch it! What’s the worst that could happen?” But I don’t. I stay far away and hide it under my desk.

9/4/22

After some research, I discovered that my mushroom is a Mycena Acicula; A bright orange mushroom native to Virginia. It grows in dark, damp environments…and is completely harmless. What was I worried about? I could have touched it and even eaten it! Granted, it probably would have felt gross and tasted blande if not repulsive, but at least I wouldn’t have been so afraid. Ultimately, it was not a fear of consequence, but a fear of the unknown.