A Charleston Moment (Aka: Warm Southern Hospitality and Peaceful Serenity)

By Mark A. Leon

To an outsider, it can be difficult to comprehend the true sense of Southern hospitality that is Charleston.  It is an indescribable feeling of serenity, peace and community.  Like the warm breeze over the marsh or the sounds of the heron flying above, Charleston is a tapestry of natural wonders, caring residents, nurturing cultural and coastal pride.  It is an area proud of its heritage, its natural beauty and its people.

Sometimes you need a Charleston moment to completely understand why we love our home.

Last evening, just off the connector bridge between James Island and Johns Island, I found paved roadway between two private communities.  With marsh on both sides, palmetto’s garnishing the sides of the road and a westward facing view, I was able to witness a breathless sunset.  On the eve of the Summer Solstice, this sunset, followed by a full moon to lose yourself in, created a moment that has left a last imprint.

The peaceful surroundings of this street alone did not make this moment complete.  As I leaned back on my car watching the sun dip below a palmetto in the forefront, stretches of clouds like delicate paint strokes donned the sky and birds chirped as they passed overhead.  During these last few moments, a few cars, a couple of golf carts, a motorcycle and two joggers passed by my parked car.

With each passerby, a wave and a smile. I even had a father and son team in a golf cart asking if I was okay.  But they knew.  No car problems, just an admirer of a Charleston sunset.

The friendly demeanor of one stranger to another spoke volumes.  These interactions, though subtle, mean a great deal to us.

This moment of complete peace and awe, with a sprinkle of that warm friendliness we have come to love, reinforced how special this place is.

If these words don’t inspire, take few minutes to enjoy the visual spectacle of last night in the Lowcountry.

Continue to take pride in this little spot under the sun, we call our Southern home.