Soul of Charleston – Original Poem

By Mark A. Leon

You embody the soul of us all

The sweet romance of the South coats us with a fragrant scent
Scripted from the feather tip ink of Keats or Byron
Forever and ever you will cuddle us with your paradise

The heart of the Palmetto soaks in the energy of the sun and fans away the heat
The guided force of the Ashley welcomes a heavenly breeze into the harbor

As ghosts of Charleston’s past lead the carriage ride to the future, we look around in fondness
Like a time capsule, our past, present, and future lie locked away safely under lock and key
These cobblestone roads tell a story with each bump
Wooden wagon wheels turn slowly reminding us to see life one moment at a time

Like the chiming of St. Michael’s, hold the memories close

You are our professor Lord Charleston and we are your students
In your humbled wisdom, you bestow life lessons
No walls, no rules, no boundaries
In this open air, we are offered prayer

Charleston marks the beginning, of life, love, and tranquility
Measured by the power of a hug, the gentleness of a kiss, the subtle nature of the autumn wind of the marina

Blessed by the sunrise, secured by the sunset, and guided by the lighthouse nestled on the coastal shore
Wayward sailors seek refuge

Charleston is kissed by the words of Poe, saturated with the gifts of the South and nurtured by the heart of family

With open arms, the city touches our spirit
We are children safe in our Charleston home