Belle Isle, Gem of the Detroit River.

Traffic, the purest form of apprehension. Nothing causes more agitation, unease and discomfort. Ruination of one of the most enjoyable, liberating experiences one has in the modern era of adult life: driving.

But in the midst of appreciating the wind sweeping through my hair, the sounds and sights, some of which are anticipated, others startling the shit out of you. In between all this we find ourselves winding in and out, getting around those second-rate bastards. So inadequate at navigating or even concentrating on the assignment they readily accepted. The responsibility of driving, which becomes a chore. It is pure drudgery when it’s a chore.

This chore becomes a burden that dehydrates every bit of moisture from that pleasurable experience. Pay attention, it’s all I ask. Seems so simple, trust me it is not. Then when you see these creatures, manage and operate a vehicle on the roads with others it becomes a nightmare.

Navigating through this mindless wave of what emerges to be a sea of brainless zombies. Somehow we’ve arrived, before us the MacArthur bridge materializes and we have almost found a safe haven. Not sure about safety, it’s never one of the priorities on any adventurous checklist I’m part of. As I eyeball my partner on this mission, Jay has an air of not giving many fucks about him. I rest assured that safety is not topping his list of concerns either.

Traversing the bridge Jay guides his truck and continues our exploits. We ramble on, cruising, exploring deep, intricate terrain all the while cracking jokes and having fun. This terrain is that of ideas, philosophies, our personal opinions. These conversations give us connection, other times we have contrasting viewpoints. Looking out at the general population, we hold a mutual respect for each other and our friendship because those others out there are as tossed as they come. But I digress, and will wrap up these thoughts by stating that I’m pleased in how our friendship has grown. Both of us rare breeds, the last of the thoroughbreds. Those scarce, uncommon, practically endangered species who shoot straight and keep it real. Now where were we?

She is a glimmering, shimmering, bright, breathtaking, thing of beauty. Traveling across her bridge from Detroit proper to what is known affectionately as the Island; we crossover to Belle Isle the gem of the Detroit River. So much to see, smell, feel, hear and take in. I have so much to say, write, but I don’t know where to start or end. This could go on for years. I’ve been out there, inside, outside, I’ve been everywhere. That’s overstating the case, I’ve seen a great deal of the world. The only relevance in this is, most people not in state have never heard of Belle Isle. Most Michiganders don’t know anything about Belle Isle, perhaps they heard of it, never stepping foot on it however will leave you with an overwhelming lack of understanding.

Belle Isle is many places, means many things, holds many memories, as well as being a bastion of creating future memories at this very instant. A first kiss, shared between a couple infatuated, youthful lovers. The back roads, in the back woods, passion welling inside the backseat. The hiking trip, too trippy in those acid soaked minds. The Scott Fountain, what a lovely backdrop for those wedding pictures. The smiles beaming with a shared and promised undying love of the wedding day.

Family isle, where a father takes his daughter or son to hook their first fish. Where a son, daughter and mother can spend the day at the beach, in the nature center, aquarium, or conservatory. The choices are endless in this small state park that is a treasure to Detroit as well as Michigan.

Nothing strikes nostalgia like the smell of BBQ grills grilling, marijuana smoke in the air and cruising laps around the “Island” from just before sunset to almost sunrise. Nothing is more magical, magnificent and satisfying as watching the sun crest the horizon on its way to a new day on the north pier. The shadows of night, surrender to the all powerful rays of the one they called Ra. Shimmering strands of light reflected in a dazzling display on the skyline of that irresistible and bewitching city I love so deeply, Detroit.

If you’ve never been to Belle Isle, it’s a must see place. Full of firsts, fun, beautiful sights, landmarks and more. The history, the architecture, the animals, everything else as well. Water slides, parks, pavilions, BBQ grills, it’s all here. You’re one stop spot for family gatherings, date night, or to journey into the depths of your mind. There is no right way to spend the day, at “Belle Isle."