Running on cliffs of jagged volcanic rocks makes for a dangerous endeavor in any footwear. Today the Vibram all-terrain barefoot shoes didn't bode well with the coast of Easter Island. My feet took a beating during the run and were sore afterwards. I am to blame. I openly admit it wasn't the best choice. I knew discomfort would come as I chose my destination for the morning run. I assumed the grandeur of the view from an outer edge of the island would linger in my mind far longer than temporary pain. I chose wisely.
Gazing over the endless
horizon, hearing the waves crash into the cliffs to form fabulous sprays and a
foamy pool was a joy. I breathed air free of city pollutants and cruised the
shore watching the sun makes its glorious appearance for the day. All the words
I'm privy to in the English language fall short. Eden, Jenna, Heaven, utopia,
and paradise all come to mind, but do not do justice to the wonders of
unmolested creation found at Easter Island.
Mixed in this buffet for the
senses are Moai, erected and in various states of disarray. Many questions
remain about the huge statues, who made them, why, how they were moved to the
platforms from the quarry, who did they represent, were they deified, why did construction
cease and why were they painstakingly toppled? In addition to that list of mysteries,
Easter Island has an entirely different cultural tradition from later
generations related to the Bird Man Cult. It, too, is shrouded in folklore and
the best guesses of social scientists. What stands without question is the
beauty of Rapa Nui. Albeit far from the rest of the inhabitable world, this
island is one of the most delightful specks of land I have ever been fortunate
enough to visit.
Run in beautiful places.
Tom
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