I decided to take my map today and read within it's contour lines the secrets in which they may hold. Gazing at Ridgelines, Spurs, Saddles and Depressions taking several dead end guesses and nearing the end of a beautiful day, I discovered Sacred Ground. A place I feel will not be recorded in my Fishing journal, highlighted on a map nor discussed in great detail except as tales passed down to the next generation. A beautiful place where the Wild Trout once released, ran directly back to gulp your next cast much like a child, trusting, innocent and unknowing of the lessons soon learned. As I sat creekside, Eastern Tiger Swallowtails swarmed about landing amongst my gear in such a way, attempting to gain my attention. This made me think of the Cherokee that once dominated this area.. the Cherokee believed Butterflies carried the wishes to the Great Spirit in heaven to be granted. Release after release I realized my wishes were indeed granted.
As I worked my way back through laurels, hardwoods and pines, I looked back and realized that I seen no presence of man, no sound, no blown trash, fire pits or beaten paths and was over whelmed with peace. I'm not sure if I will return, I'm not sure it's a place ready for us humans..It seems to be doing just fine without us. It was a privledge to be on "Ay tee kaw ee ay lay - gah dah" today.
Just a few shots streamside & a couple from my travels... Enjoy, Cheers... John
