Haibun: Chance encounter on the Kalalau Trail

Twelve miles of the steep switchback, jungle-cliff trail. A peek-a-boo vista down to the quiet cove and white sand beach below. The water bottle is empty among the camping gear in the backpack. I smile, ‘how fortunate, the beach is empty. Total seclusion.’ Upon arrival, I dump my pack and cannot resist the urge to strip off my clothes and run and plunge into the surging water of the clear azure blue ocean. I…