SLAM!

"Invalid Item" 

T'aebaek

Looking in just now over our shoulders,
you probably thought that we were simply resting there
beneath the thick, snow-laden canopy of oaks and pines
before a final assault on the summit.
But we’d already topped T’aebaek an hour ago,
clawing our way upward the decisive hundred meters
in fitful spurts while spreading the world at our feet.

We’d punched through the heavy-bellied clouds near the top
at sunrise allowing the crystalline April sunlight
to seep through to creep along the sodden, foot-worn path below.
And then there were only the two of us, infinity, and
the haunting cry of a protesting Red-Throated Loon
rising above the brittle splatter of bruised, icy waters
dashing downward alongside a trail we later followed
at a more relaxed pace, having absorbed
the wonder of the emerging panorama.

And when you saw us there, my bride and I,
we’d just retraced our steps from the peak
and had paused at an ancient, moss-coated altar
acknowledging Hwan Ung,
god of all that is, has been and ever will be.
A visit by newlyweds is said by locals,
if not conforming occidentals,
to assure a fruitful union
marked by rich, meaningful lives.

Thirty-five years later we revisited
this unspoiled, tranquil setting on the mountain,
a bit rumpled and road-weary,
but intact and secure in our wholeness.
Our climb was measured, our pauses more frequent.
But T’aebaek’s stony continence, as ever,
remains timeless, impermeable -
and the promise still dangles from the boughs
in the deep shadows,
about a hundred meters short of the summit.

Author's note: In Korea’s ancient history, legend has it that there was Hwan Ung. Hwan Ung was a god who desired earthly power with a view to governing human society. He descended to Mt. T'aebaek and called the mountain “The Holy Place.” From here, he commanded the Lord of Wind, the Master of Rain and the Master of Cloud. He attended to the planting of grains, the regulation of life, sickness and judged good and evil. Betrothed and newlyweds often visit the altar at T’aebaek to have their union blessed by the gods.

There is a bit of info available on the internet regarding Hwan Ung, lesser gods & T’aebaek, but I’d already learned a good deal from my wife, through other familial ties, studying original source materials, and from a host of Korean friends.

My wife is Korean/Japanese, I’m a Korean/Japanese linguist, we married in Seoul in 1969 & we visited T’aebaek shortly following our marriage. We’ve actually been back to the general area many times over the years - great skiing area!

** Images For Use By Upgraded+ Only **
          ** Images For Use By Upgraded+ Only **