Dream Rock

(POV:  first person by one of the boys)

There are a few places in the world that one can go and feel completely at peace and free.  I may be ahead of my time to make such a proclamation but Dream Rock is one of those places.  Dream Rock is a place that has been part of stories and legends for centuries.  Many, many years ago, generations ago, it is said that the Native Americans that roamed the area would get to Dream Rock and pray for good fortune for the tribes and for safety from nature and opposing forces.  The view from Dream Rock was said to be so majestic that the few that could get there described it as one from dreams.  Words could not depict its beauty and only a dream could give one an accurate depiction.  That is where the rock got its name.   

What makes Dream Rock so special is how hard it is to get to, well at least how hard it used to be able to get to.  For us, we are among the handful that is even allowed on the rock.  Back in the day when a tribe wanted to reach the rock to bring great blessings to the tribe they would have to wait until a teen boy was ready to become a man.  In order for him to do this he had to clear the gap between the mainland and Dream Rock.  In between about 30 feet down stood sharp rock that one can see during low tide.  Many of those uneducated about the “Leap of Courage” would simply think, “Well if I can’t make the leap I’ll at least I’ll land in the water.”  That was the doomed thinking that high tide would trick the ones that failed into thinking.  The rocks below the water would surely be the end of them.  There is no official count for those that have tried to make the leap and failed but legend says the odds are 1 in 10 are capable of the jump.  At the edge of the mainland is an overhanging rock called Leaping Rock.  From Leaping Rock to the landing spot on Dream Rock is something like 25 feet or so.  Even the world record long jumpers of today barely eclipse that mark.  While the men are the only ones that would get to Dream Rock, there is a story of one girl who ever made the jump.  It is told that she was being chased by some men from another tribe and was forced to decide whether to take the leap or be caught by them.  She miraculously made the jump.  Two of the three men attempted but their fate did not end well.  The third decided against it.  Her courage has been honored by many generations since.  One must ask, how did anyone get back once they crossed?  That answer is for a different time.   

Today, Dream Rock still has just as much lore to everyone, however it belongs to the Wematin family and no one is allowed on it except the family.  That is unless you have just the right in.  When Harmon Park was established by the westward moving settlers a few centuries ago many of the tribes were forced to relocate.  The tribe asked for one thing in return for their willingness to move and that was that Dream Rock would remain protected and belong to a tribe member.  The settlers agreed and granted the land around Dream Rock and Dream Rock itself to the Wematin family.   Wematin means “Setting Sun” so the name resonates extremely well with Dream Rock.   

For many years the Wematin family minded their own business away from the people of Harmon Park, aside from the newer generations going to the grocery store and other places for supplies.  Then about 15-20 years ago there was some bad weather and the Wematin family lost control while they were driving along the coast and hit a tree that sent their car spiraling towards the edge of the cliff.  In the car were Mr. and Mrs. Wematin and their 15 year old daughter, Kimi.  The impact of the tree killed Kimi’s parents but Kimi fought to free herself as the car teetered on the cliff.  That’s when Mrs. Morris arrived just in time to help free Kimi.  To this day Miss Kimi (what we know her as) and Mrs. Morris are the bestest of friends.  Miss Kimi still holds her heritage to her heart and keeps her family’s land protected but because of Mrs. Morris’s great act to save her and the devout friendship that followed she treats the Morris’s as family.  She even allows them the experience of Dream Rock.  Miss Kimi has eased on some of the tradition of the rock and even allowed us three kids to go on the rock, yet 2 of the three are not part of the Morris family.  She claims that is the limit and says it is only because of the great friendship she sees between us three just like hers and Mrs. Morris’s.  No worries, we don’t have to attempt the “Leap of Courage” either to get to Dream Rock.  Miss Kimi’s parents decided that they too wanted to experience the rock instead of testing their fate so they built a narrow rope bridge from Leaping Rock to Dream Rock.  Miss Kimi spends a lot of time out on the rock connecting with her lost parents and simply enjoying its magnificent view and specialness.  You can sometimes see her walking out to the far point from the edge of town.  It really is a true honor that she lets us be part of it.   

Dream Rock’s beauty doesn’t simply lie in what you see from it.  The rock is very unique because while the base of the rock is stone and the only thing that ever grows on stone is moss, the top layer is very fertile soil that inhabits colorful and bountiful patches of perennial flowers.  Who knows, they may even be flowers only found on the rock and nowhere else.  I wouldn’t bet against it.  Lush green grass and scattered bushes help every inch of the top of the rock.  From the crossing point the rock gradually gets higher until its farthest point, about 200 feet.  At that point it is probably 50 feet above the water where the ocean’s waves beat at its base.  Looking down at that alone is a spectacular site.  The width of the rock stays about the same, probably a few car lengths.   

The thing that makes the rock incredible is the giant tree that towers at its most sea-side point.   The tree has to be over a hundred years old.  The legends say there has always been a tree there so the question is, was a new one just planted when an old one died?  Miss Kimi, the Morris family, and us are the only ones allowed on the rock but us boys being boys snuck a rope onto the rock that we tie to the tree to climb down to only a spot we know about.  That secret is for later though.  In the canopy of the tree lies a few massive eagles nests.  We still haven’t figured out how many eagles live in the tree.   The eagles bring strength and courage to the rock according to the tribes.  With the site of the sun ever-present from the rock, especially the tree, another legend points out the uniquness of the eagle being present.  The eagle alone among animals can look directly into the sun.  The sun invigorates the eyes of eagles, but injures all others.    

From the tree one is presented with the western horizon over the sea.  The sunset's colorful view is the most breathtakingly pure and peaceful site eyes can see.   It is something even some young teenage boys can spend time admiring and reflecting on every single time.  Any artist would choose the viewpoint from the shore.  It’s one that, at sunset, paints a silhouette in front of the sun setting in the west.  With Twin Stacks (two giant rock pillars sticking out of the water) sitting to the right of Dream Rock and the giant tree (we call it Eagle Tree) in front of a vast ocean forming the horizon line and an orange sun hovering above it with waves of all colors of the rainbow spreading across the sky, it is practically impossible to beat that picture, especially with a few eagles soaring above.  That’s a photo every living room wall should have.   Simply looking at it might make dreams come true.  That may be the bestseller but the purity of being on Dream Rock to witness its magnificence and serenity brings peace to ones heart.  As the warm breeze hits the face the body-wide tingling sensation flows throughout in one of those spine tingling, feel good moments.  Along with its legend and mystique it is something divine and gracious.  It brings connection to the world in the most calming way imaginable.  It is absolutely beautiful. 

Cory Morris

(POV: first person by Cory Morris)

“Cory and Landon, wait up,” yelled Lanny trying to catch up.

“Maybe if you weren’t trying to mack on the girls you could keep up,” replied Landon.  I always felt like we ran the town when we were cruising in our three man biker pack.

“Guys, I hope my mom lets me stay in town tonight,” I said.

“She will man.  It’s the last day of school.  It’s like tradition for you to stay over every year on the last day.  Tradition, you can’t end tradition.”  Landon’s confidence was always optimistic.  I, on the other hand, was usually in between when it comes to plans that required my mom’s approval.  Since we don’t live so close to town it’s not always easy with her schedule to keep up with my activities.

“Let me come in and sweet talk Mrs. Morris.  Lanny, watch the bikes.  I’ll never miss an opportunity to see her,” said Landon with a wink and playful elbow to my side.

“You’re something else Harper (Landon’s last name), something else," I said rolling my eyes as we walked into Seaver's

“Hey Mrs. Morris.  You are looking lovely today.”

“What do you want Landon,” asked mom already knowing his sweet talk tactics.

“Nothing.  I just wanted to compliment you.  I think your son wants something though.” Landon trying to hide his intent.

“I hope the girls of this world are ready for you,” said mom shaking her head.

“Mom, so you know how every year on the last day of school I always stay at the Harpers, can I stay there tonight?”

“I figured that’s what you wanted.  Yes that is fine.  Can you please promise me no complaints for fireworks at four in the morning this time around?  Stay out of trouble.”

“You know we were sleeping by one,” I answered back with a smile.  “We’ll make sure and outdo ourselves this year.”  She knew I was joking but still always a little nervous when we were all together.

“Ugh, I can’t keep up with you three,” she said shaking her head and rolling her eyes.  “And Landon, tell you parents there is no need to give Cory a ride home.  Cory, I’ll pick you up after my shift ends at noon tomorrow.”

“Thanks Mrs. Morris!”

“Love you mom.”

The minute we walked out of Seavers with approval I knew summer was officially here.  It was time for the fun to begin.  With a few hours to kill, it was time to head to our spot.

“Hey Harp, you should see if your parents will order pizza tonight,” said Lanny.

“Already covered dude.”

“Landon, do you remember last day of school party a few years ago when you had Dillon over and he passed out early and we put salt on his lips?” Dillon was a kid that we used to hang out with before he moved away.

“That was random.  Cory, I don’t know how you remember everything.  It’s good that we have you as an extra memory though I guess,” said Landon.   I’m pretty random sometimes and I seem to remember details about everything.    I like trying to remember all of our fun times growing up. 

“It was so funny seeing his reaction when he woke up,” I said. 

“You shouldn’t be giving me ideas man.  I know I won’t be the first one passing out tonight,” added Lanny, probably already scheming his own prank for the night.

“If you mess with me, I swear…,” I warned as I reached into my bag to make sure I brought the tool.  “We are all good.  I was able to snag a chisel from home.”

“Alright fellas.  Let’s hurry up and get to Dream Rock,” said Landon.  Dream Rock is my favorite place in the whole world, even though I haven’t been many places. 

Addison Alden

(POV: first person by Addison Alden)

“Who’s the guy in your drawing Addison?” asked Mrs. Parker as she stood over my shoulder.  Her presence startled me and I inadvertently drew a line across my drawing. “Sorry.”

“It’s just some kid I saw down by the docks the other day,” I replied.  She caught me making a full page drawing in my notebook.  It was a snapshot I recalled from memory of a good friend standing on the dock and throwing rocks into the bay.

“You know if you used that same kind of passion I see in your drawing in your assigned artwork people could see how talented you are.”

“I know. I know.  I just don’t enjoy paper mache.”

“Every artist has their preferred medium but if you can find out how to put ‘you’ into other mediums you can develop and master those as well. “ I know she was trying to share some wisdom with me and it probably goes beyond art, but pencil and paper just comes so naturally to me.

Ringgg…ringgg…ringgg…

“Have a great summer everyone! Make some fun stories,” shouted Mrs. Parker as the classroom of about 20 rushed for the doorway.   

School was done!  The 8^th grade can now be marked complete!  Suddenly my focus on my drawing immediately changed to what the next 3 months were going to bring.  I just did a 180 from being locked in on a task to now being free and excited for the possibilities.  I rushed out of the classroom towards my locker on the first floor.  The excitement nearly made me go sliding down the stairs on my butt as I missed a step.

“There’s a step there Addy,” said Landon from behind as he caught me in mid-fall.  Instantly my face filled red with embarrassment.

“Thanks but I saw it,” I quickly responded back.  “Did you and Cory come up with any ideas for tonight?”

“We got a few ideas but we’re not sure if we want it to be just a guys night or not.”

“Quiet.  You know you want to hang out with us.” 

“Okay maybe you’re right.  Only because you’re so cool though,” he teased.  I can never tell if he is being an ass or truthful.

“Hey Harp,” yelled Sydney to Landon from down the hall.  “Cory said you guys want to play Ditch ‘em tonight.  You’re going down sucker!”  Sydney and Landon are always too competitive with each other for me.  I don’t like to lose either but I hate the fallout after every contest.  Whenever one of them loses it’s like all the fun is sucked out of the group because someone’s pride is damaged. 

“Can we just play a game for pure fun for once and not put so much weight on the outcome?” Listen to me, I sound like my mother.

“Addy, don’t worry.  We’ll behave.” Sydney answered as she winked to Landon expecting me not to see it.

“Alright girls we’ll see you at the docks at about 8 tonight.  Let’s go Cory.  Hurry up Lanny,” said Landon.  Lanny was digging through the clutter of papers at the bottom of his locker.

“Chill bro.  I’m looking for your mom’s wedding ring.  I asked her to take it off last night.  It was distracting me,” replied Lanny trying to insinuate that he spent the night with Landon’s mom and create a laugh.  It worked.  It got a chuckle out of me.  “Ok found it.”

“Why would you have her ring here at school, smartass? Good one though,” said Landon.

"See you ladies tonight,” he said as he walked backwards and gave a heads up nod.

Shaking our heads and smiling Sydney and I playfully replied, “Miss you Lanny.” 

"Later," said Landon as he saluted us.

As the guys walked out of the school I kept staring.  “When are you going to get over that boy or say something?” questioned Kelly as she approached her locker next to mine. 

“Ya Addy it’s so obvious you got a thing for him,” added Sydney.

“I’m all good.  Boys are trouble.  I like our group the way it is.” I told both of them even though my actions clearly showed my interest.  I quickly tried to change the subject.  “My mom said you two should come over for an end of school dinner tonight.  How does 6:30 sound?”

“Sold!  I love momma Alden’s cooking,” Kelly excitedly answered.

“Me too,” added Sydney. 

“Perfect.  I’ll see you both then.”

Prologue: A Little Coastal Town Called Harmon Park

The yard light’s still on.  Still got time.  A solid leap to hop the fence.  5988.  Bike is unlocked.  You get a running start to get on as you get out on the highway.  A tough incline awaits.  Downshifting to 4, pedaling harder.  Standing up now, using all power.  The musles burn with each turn over.  The challenge feels great.  20 gears on this cruiser.  Almost there.  The top of the hill is in sight.  The slight breeze behind is encouraging.  A tiny glimpse of orange rises on the horizon.  You reach Chrissy Point as a beautiful bird flies up from down below.  It looks like an eagle.  It could be a sign of good fortune.  In mid-ride you hop off.  The bike slides into the gravel.  A guard rail stops a 100 foot free fall.  The binos are already in your pocket so you pull them out.    A short break is needed.  Anxiously waiting.  Nothing comes.  Nothing comes.  The sea is tranquil.  Below the vast ocean brushes the cliff wall.  Dawn is here.  Mesmorized, you look directly at the sun.  The magnification stuns for a few seconds.  Suddenly after readjusting the pod is spotted.  A lucky day.  One after another you gaze at their beauty.  Through the water they move so graciously with each large black dorsal dipping in and out.  One must have noticed you.  Out of the water he rises and crashes onto his back.  Your ecstatic! The picturesque moment is now engrained.  They pass by for their day’s mission.  You must get on with yours.  Only a few more miles.  The hard work is done.  Time to coast.  Around the bend you go.  19 and steamrolling down now.  You recall the time the speed made you nervous.  Not anymore.  A quick glance right at the cove.  Two sea lions fighting for a rock.  One’s got position.  He’s king of the rock.  You feel empowered by his dominance.  Moving on.   

Pulling into town now, the light turns green just in time.  Straight south down Coastal still.  Not early enough, the harbor is busy already.  “Good morning lad!” one of the guys yells from the dock.  You wave and smile back, feeling good and confident on this fine morning.  Time to speed up and show the guys.  They all watch and wave as you roll by.  Cat! A quick jerk avoids hitting her as she heads for the dock scraps.  A close call.  Reality check.  To the left the old fogies roll out of Seavers.  Morning coffee is over.  It’s too early for you.  An air-horn blares in the distance.  One boat is already out past Twin Stacks and near the lighthouse on Split Rock Island.  The wind pulls you a big whiff.  There’s nothing like the smell of tuna as the last dock approaches.  A captain flags you down and requests a delivery to Mrs. Beckett.  No problem.  It’s on the way, just a little ways east down Main right off the Square.  Pedal on.  The legs feel great.  Her house is approaching.  She’s already waiting.  Some Salmon for a donut.  Good trade.  A kiss on the cheek has you turn red.  Time for a thank you.  You look to carry on through downtown.  It’s still quiet, minus the clerk sweeping in front of a shop.  6:10 is still early.  The corner church with the tall steeple signals a left onto Nelson.  You race around the corner, just a few more blocks.  You see the crew is gathered and waiting.  Everyone is ready.  You’ve arrived.  The journey in is done but the adventure is about to begin.  Seems like a typical day but it never is.  You know why?  This is Harmon Park.

This piece was inspired by a narrative from one of my favorite movies, The Perfect Storm.   The intent was for it to be read and visualized like in the movie.