*no reproduction of photo without written permission by MJ LaDuke
Anticipating a sunset often brings you to a myriad of flashbacks...from oceans to lakes across the country to islands far away to countries overseas. But tonight, the Great Lakes, one in particular, bring solace to the heart, peace to the mind and comfort to the soul allowing us to stay in the present moment. Let us look no further than the present and no farther into the past without creating unrest. For each sunset brings new meaning to life and new additions to our dreams.
A new destination brings depth to the spirit and a smile to the face when savoring the moment the sun meets the horizon. The anticipation soared as we approached our destination, we were taunted with each turn of our trek. A glimpse of the lake was in sight for but a moment only to disappear swiftly by a vast verdant abyss of pines, fruit laden trees and endless rows of maize. Each fork in the road exalted berries, fruit or wood!
With an endless view of the Great Lake in sight we arrived at our destination, yet the journey began anew as we set a new course for our Six Nights of Sunsets...a walk down the jetty proclaimed unrest on one side and tranquility on the other. The fishermen emerged as dusk drew near and the young-at-heart created their own memories as fearless stunts graced the waves and the chill of the water caressed their bodies. Their silhouettes glistened in the sun and their shadows danced with the skyline as we awaited the moment when the sun kissed the earth.
The clouds grew bountiful, but the source of all life jetted through each sliver of space offering beams of light to dance on the water below. As the end drew near the clouds gracefully passed and revealed the burning orange sphere. The beauty went unnoticed by many as they continued on with their evening play. Children's laughter drifted from the swings, teenagers demonstrated their athletic prowess off of the jetty and sweethearts walked hand-in-hand along the water's edge.
The moment came and swiftly went and now we anticipate the setting of the second night. As the eyes are closed and the sounds of the waves crash upon the shore, they sound not unlike that of the ocean. But something in the sound of the fresh water waves exudes more comfort than their salty counterpart. Perhaps the cooler nights and the unity of family that abounds create a heartfelt feeling that only the change in seasons can bring.
On this night, the sun is clearly visible as the clouds linger above the unique giver of life sharing warmth and beauty to all that acknowledge its presence. Behind the jetty it slowly sinks into the water and brings light to the other side of the sleeping world. As we say goodnight to the day we embrace the night that we are left with and each other. Only the aura of what once existed remains.
The third day brings unrest to the surrounding waters and even the partner of jetties can't hold back the force of the tide and winds. The animated weather brings clouds so dense not even a mere glimpse of the sun can be found yet the rituals of many remain the same. However, the spirited waters welcome brave souls to ride her waves as if upon the salty oceans. A conquered surf reveals yet another purpose for each evening whether a blatant or clandestine sun.
Into the night the weather turned restless to reveal a morning filled with a blanket of fog. The lighthouse faded and remained cloaked well into the afternoon hours. To the sailor's delight, the hours passed and the veil slowly lifted as the vast lake opened her arms once again welcoming the last Dog Days of summer. The fate of the next setting of the sun was sealed and hearts walked with a lighter step with anticipation of the evening's ethereal beauty.
And so it came. The lighthouse stood tall and proud as a beacon for all. The sun's audience faded this eventide, but for those loyal fans the show was grand. A tequila sunrise kissed the horizon as it spanned across the lake. The prism of color remained into the night as onlookers faded, yet the memory will live on in hearts and dreams for nights to come.
On this fifth evening the clouds were absent; Not one decorated the canvas of the night. A blazing sun exuded nobility and nostalgia as the setting was anticipated by all. Not even the smallest white cap erupts from the water. Only a slow ripple rolls across the lake to enhance the glistening path of light and even the fish swim beyond the lures to maintain the serenity. Stillness has arrived.
The journey down the jetty was like no other this week...waves remained obsolete and the path dry. The end became the beginning as we watched and waited. The breathtaking ritual was full of grace and prowess admired by most, and missed by few. Patience brings the pinnacle of the holiday to full circle.
The sixth and final sunset was a backdrop for the consummation of the holiday. The evening
held a plethora of memories from dawn to dusk from undulating greens and sparkling waters to
historical landmarks and thought provoking cinema. Though the mesmerizing sphere fell slowly below the horizon with less attention than deserved it was not forgotten nor dismissed. As the last rays danced upon the water, we hold the shining star in our hearts for eternity as it feeds our souls and nurtures our spirit. Without it, we would surely perish.
*No reproduction of any part or whole of article without written consent by the author.
