Gateway to Heaven

Gates. The image of a gate is symbolic of an entry as much as it is a barrier. The proverbial Pearly Gate comes to mind, the entry to heaven where St. Peter waits to either check you in, or not. If you actuality arrive at the gate, seems like you shouldn't be turned away. But if you're not on the guest list, you can forgetta 'bout it.

The California Coastal Commission recently directed the keepers of a local gate in Santa Cruz that leads to a protected surf break to open up to the public and stop charging admission or face heavy fines. It's all about public access, the collecting of money and permits. For those who surf there, it's about keeping crowds away and the inner sanctum clean and managed. They want to maintain a low key vibe.

The Coastal Commission's directive was on TV and the front page of the local daily newspaper, only drawing attention to the surf break. While I understand the commission's position I also feel for those who surf there regularly. Crowds, trash and irresponsible people can be a big problem and it will be a shame to see this cool surf break become an over-populated mess.

While the raging south swell of the past weekend has mostly dissipated, I have been contemplating these and other philosophical matters while sealing and toning our beautiful redwood gate, built by master craftsman Chris Meaham. The art of constructing something useful and of beauty from natural materials with your hands must be extremely pleasing. I enjoyed every brush stroke over the wavy grain lines in the wood that will help protect the gate from the inevitable weathering of time.

I did manage a brief session in the water yesterday during the noon hour. Then back to my gate.