Rakshasa, JD Koth

Eastside Trail

Eastside Corridor at the northeast corner of Piedmont Park

Rakshasa are demons or goblins in Hindu mythology. They are said to shape shift and wreck havoc between sunset and sunrise. Some Rakshasa are described, more benevolently, as nature spirits. I choose to think of the Rakshasa in Piedmont Park more like a nature spirit. It sits tucked way on what I call my super secret — and most favorite — part of my usual route. The first time I saw it I began to create a story in my mind’s eye of a great protector spirit giving me strength during my run, reminding me to grateful for health and time, and building my relationship with the quiet and beauty of the woods. It is constant in the way seasons always change and stone always remains. It is mysterious in the way that it knows things — the secrets of years and the weight of many eyes. Many mouths have probably told its unique story. That is somehow locally mythic in a global and philosophical and even theological way.

A Note on my Atlanta Beltline Writing Project

I am practicing paying attention. I am practicing noticing beauty. I am practicing getting in touch with my artist self. I am practicing connecting with the outdoors. I am practicing my inner Mary Oliver. I live in Atlanta, “the city in a forest.” I live on the Atlanta Beltline, an interurban trail that graces the city. The Beltline is part arboretum, part art gallery, part park. It connects shops and restaurants and homes with people of all descriptions. I walk on the Beltline 4 or 5 times a week. I have spent the last year appreciating all that it is. My hope is to write about it — its art, trees, landmarks, etc.— for the next few weeks as spring unfolds. I want to soak it all in.