When I saw photos of this place, I knew that I wanted to sit on one of those benches and see the sun come up...right there. It was one of those things that you just know. As sure as anything, you know you need to be right there.
This spring we did sit there. And it wasn't an easy trip. But now that its done, I have no qualms about the effort it took to be there.
First of all, where IS this place? That was the first thing that crossed my mind. How to you get there if you don't know where you are going? But Google can be a good friend and soon I knew that it was at Camp Greenville, a YMCA camp on the upper edge of South Carolina. In the deep mountains of Appalachia....quiet, pristine, sacred.
We were able to find a campground that rented a vintage travel trailer to us that was just minutes from this chapel. And the sisters who owned the campground were gracious and accommodating. They call this place "Pretty Place", a 1941 chapel still in use by the YMCA campers but open to visitors on occasion.
We carefully timed our visit to go when it was available to visits. And we trekked our way through the mountains to arrive just after a rain storm. I'll show you those rainbow photos someday too. The next morning we were up before dawn to arrive there and wait. Wait for what the day would bring us.
Others quietly arrived behind us. And we all sat and marveled in the majesty of nature. So many thoughts ran through my mind. Thoughts about what I saw, what I felt, what I am....
I get the same feeling when I start the day watching the sun come up here at home. It's not as majestic...but the feeling is the same.
Folks ask me how I am able to get up so early and go out to take photos? It's because the effort is simply worth it.
But there is more.... a 2022 medically reviewed article* lists ten health related reasons to watch the sunrise. Here they are:
It reduces inflammation: We actually lower our levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines anytime we have a feeling of awe.
It improves mood: When sunlight stimulates the retinas in our eyes, it triggers our brain to produce serotonin, the feel good hormone.
It helps our circadian rhythms: those exposed to light in the morning fall asleep better (and stay asleep better)
It reduces stress: as little as ten minutes in a natural setting reduces the effects of stress.
It's time away from devices like this one....it helps us take a break.
It helps you lose weight: morning light exposure influences levels of appetite-regulating hormones.
It restores attention: Spending time in nature reduces mental fatigue and boosts concentration.
It reduces depression: waking up one hour earlier has been shown to reduce major depressions by 23%
It contributes to a healthy routine: it starts your day with a calm, peaceful vibe.
It puts life into perspective: It's always good to be reminded of the bigger picture.
That said, there is another reason I wanted to be there. It's a chance to pay tribute to my God...our God... I don't often talk about it, but we are here for a reason- a purpose....we all are important where we are. Sunrise offers a new day full of untapped opportunity to do something for others.
Sitting on a bench at sunrise is where I want to be. If you get a chance, do it...I'm here to tell you you'll be better for it....And the science tells us too!
*Traci Peterson, August 2022
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