The Charleston Observer

Getting High

Ready to hit the trail

Now and then it is a good idea to get out of town for variety, out of the heat for your sanity, and away from the ocean for change of pace. Lots of people go to the mountains, but why not shoot high—more than a mile high—and go all the way to the North Carolina-Tennessee border and walk on the Appalachian Trail? The air is cool and thin, and on a clear day you can see five states (at least that’s what a local hiker told us). We came to the trail just above Bakersville, NC on Highway 261 (follow 26 to 19 to 226 to 261).

With North Carolina in the background

From the parking lot, it was an easy walk through pristine forest on a well-worn gravel path that brought us quickly to the mountain top. Manicured grounds and a sweeping 360-degree view were waiting. The perfect spot for contemplation or a picnic, or both. Of course, we talked about coming back at sunset with wine. Maybe next time?

Way down the mountain, over a ridge to the south, lies the churn and charm of Charleston which we will see again soon enough. For now, we let them be. It’s time to look around, clear our heads, and touch the sky.

When wearied, I mount on the bird of light and empty air,
And wander in the region of non-identity,
To dwell in the wilderness of desert space.
~ Kwang-Tze

· Get directions to Bakersville, NC

Silent and Still

A simple stone bench in a private Charleston garden. Just waiting for someone to approach gently, sit quietly, and do nothing but take in a moment of existence. Even from the street, gazing at this scene through the garden fence, a passerby can realize that there is a quiet place within where nothing touches you. No event. No person. No thought or feeling or worry. Nothing at all.

In that inner territory of solace, you rediscover that you have everything you need, which is nothing. Simple being, presence, awareness—whatever you want to call it. The only true sanctuary. The only real possession. The only guaranteed security. The utmost accomplishment of enduring worth. Always near at hand. •

A New Site in Town

The Charleston Observer is not going anywhere, for now. But here’s our latest venture. Take a look at www.CharlestonToday.net. And tell your friends!

Currency Hard to Come By

Think these coins will ever make a comeback? As children on Sullivan’s Island, we used to stand shoulder-deep in the surf, probe the bottom with our feet, and somehow manage to pick up sand dollars with our toes.

Of course, the only value they had was as skipping rocks. Nothing glided so smoothly or effortlessly across the waves as they did.

Some months ago, while strolling on Folly Beach, I chanced upon one of these now rare jewels (fully intact). It sits motionless on a table at home, dry and white. But it gives me a special joy each time I look at it. The joy of timeless days at the beach, in the surf, heedless of the sun. A priceless currency, for sure. •

The Tooth Fairy

Ever wondered what the tooth fairy looks like? My five-year-old daughter never wonders. She just draws. In an instant. No revisions. With fascinating details. And in full color.

She said recently: “Sometimes my mind just goes blank and I don’t think about anything.” Ah, to be a child. (It’s still possible. We just forget now and then.)

A large coin in one hand and a still bloody tooth in the other

With hand outstretched, waiting for the reward (while sleeping)