Winter in Charleston is mostly wonderful. Yesterday, the high was 79 degrees without humidity or bugs, and it was the perfect day to explore the renovated White Point Garden on the Battery. My friend Howard and I took a two-hour stroll along the waterfront and through the streets South of Broad talking about the future and the past. It was such an unusual and enjoyable day that I didn’t expect when I met him to discuss our next project.
Life can be surprising that way. You simply go about your daily business, expecting to follow the usual schedule or routine, and suddenly there’s a choice. Do you continue on with the familiar or take the path less traveled?
Recently, I’ve faced a plethora of paths, some of which are comforting and well trod, while others are dimly lit, with shadows and hidden turns. I thought that 2026 would bring me some firm direction, but so far it’s been rocky, with some major hurdles just ahead on the horizon.
But, while walking with Howard I found some compass points in the wise words he shared. You can map out where you want to go, but sometimes the traffic or detours take you in an altogether different direction. It may reveal some exciting new adventures but could also take you into uncharted territory, where you may find “bad,” and feel compelled to do a U-turn.
On my drive home that evening, as I waited in traffic to head back over the Ravenel Bridge, I thought about our conversation and where it might lead. While it likely won’t be straightforward, it could result in something new and exciting. And that’s always a reason to never stop exploring.