A Leelanau Reprieve


Empire Beach - Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Imagine strolling along Empire Beach at dusk, the last golden rays of a summer day shimmering on the lake.

 The cool water caresses your feet.  A lone gull circles high above the blue green forest.

The evening is serene, and all is right in the world.

 Then, ...

 Your eyes are drawn to an unbelievable and terrifying sight - the silhouette of a man hanging by his neck from a tree on the bluff, his body gently swaying in the breeze.

 A true account of this hanging was reported in the Leelanau Enterprise a few years ago.

 Ever since, I've tried to imagine what it would be like to come upon a scene of such overwhelming incongruity ...

 Between the beauty and contentment of one moment, ... and the ugliness and anguish of the next.

 How could this be … in the Land of Delight?

It could not be.

 Evil could not prevail in Leelanau, ... not on this enchanted evening.

 As if by miracle, a smartphone signal alerted the county sheriff to the whereabouts of this distraught soul ….

 And he was rescued from the tree before his life ran out.

It is no coincidence that good is victorious in the most beautiful place.
See You Up North,
Chris
                         Visit A Leelanau Landmark:  Empire Beach - site of 
                         the miraculous "Leelanau Reprieve."  One look, in any
                         season, and you'll know why death hath no sting in 
                         the Land of Delight.  In Empire Village, take Niagara
                         Street west to the big lake. Parking fee may apply.
NOTE:  All advertising revenue from "Leelanau Up North" assists those in need at the Capuchin Soup Kitchen in Detroit.  Just click on the ads and it's done.  No out of pocket from you.  Thanks.








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