A hike on a beautiful calm sunny day was exactly what was needed. As we climbed the Old Schoolhouse Trail there was so much to see – over hills and through valleys to the rocky shores. It was a brush with the sacred.
On the north eastern shore of Newfoundland and Labrador is a the small village of Eastport. It’s ruggedness and beauty speaks of deep spirit. Monday morning my sister and I set out from her home to explore one of the many trails in this community that take you over hills and through valleys to the rocky shores. Old Schoolhouse Trail was our destination on this calm, sunny day.
Just beyond the fish plant we begin the trail that will take us up over the hill. This pathway, once traveled by children from neighbouring settlements to get to school, is now devoid of children but stories of long ago times linger in the air. Up, Up, Up we go until we come to the top that fulfills the promise of a breathtaking view of the ocean and it spans out from the rocky cliffs.
A Place Where the Imagination can Soar
The moss covered ground, the tiny trees and the splashes of colour from plants that grow despite the harshness of the elements, speak of endurance, ancient wisdom, beauty, challenge and possibility. From the top we head down into the fairy forest. This is a place where the imagination can soar and the soul is fed. Lush green moss covers the forest bed and many of the rock formations. Tall trees provide shade. Then there are the ancient trees that are growing out of rocks where no growth should be.
With the sun shining through the trees and lighting pathways you can almost see the activity of the fairies and hear the stories they tell of people and land and of by gone days. There is a presence in this place that calls the spirit and feeds the soul.
A Brush with the Sacred
On from the forest down to the beautiful white sandy beaches with the water lapping against the shore. The smell of the fresh ocean air fills the lungs with newness of life and the wind blows cleansing body, mind and spirit.
Two hours later we are back at home, a little tired, refreshed and renewed. This was an encounter with the presence of Holy Mystery. It was a connection with the ancestors and a brush with the sacred.
In Psalm 65 the ancient ones share these words
“Those who live at earth’s farthest bounds are awed by sacred signs. At the gateway of the morning and of the evening, creation shouts with joy. The pastures of the wilderness overflow, the hills gird themselves with joy, the meadows clothe themselves with flocks, the valleys deck themselves with grain. They shout and sing together for joy.”
Blessings
Valerie
Such a beautiful start to my day! I can smell the air and hear the “crunch” underfoot… exhilarating for my mind and soul! Thank you Rev. Valerie!
Beautifully written, Val. Having read the words and viewed the pictures, I could close my eyes and imagine having been on the hike as well. For a minute, I felt like I was on my own sabbatical. Thank you.