Lately I’ve been looking for distractions to extricate myself from the grim news all around us. Experts say we should take in headlines in small doses, and seek out more zen experiences to balance out the darkness with something light and joyful. I typically turn to nature.

I’ve started exploring “the best of” photos in National Geographic, and I keep my eye out for Images that will lift my spirits, not crush them.

I ran across the photo above — of the Chinese Yulan Magnolia flower — that teases the viewer with an alter ago: that of a precious pink baby bird, sitting in a cozy nest. The web went abuzz when these pics began to surface, and then skeptics pointed out that they are too perfect, that very few of these photos actually exist, and someone may have Photoshopped an eye onto one of the flower babies.

I’ve decided I don’t care. The beautiful thing about art — especially in nature —  is that its purpose is to engage. Ideally, when we look at a painting, we’re drawn in — we may not be able to figure it out — but we’re hopelessly hitched. I love when I’m fooled. I look forward to being tricked. I’m drawn to the kind of art that messes with my head. Whether it’s an optical illusion, trick photography, or yes, even Photoshop — I’m in for the ride.