Letters to the editor: Too many are at one spot on lake

I have often come upon deaf ears, maybe it’s because I was silenced as a child. Over time I have learned that silence is golden. My practice of meditation and prayer are now a daily ritual I look forward to.

We are in a battle over a lovely little piece of paradise on Big Lake, the sandy point. Definitely a destination spot on the lake. Especially on weekends, the sandy point is full of watercraft, people and an occasional dog or two. They are there for not only a quick dip, but all day long. The point is being pressured by too much boat traffic. My guess is the point is also their rest stop, free to urinate, allowing their dogs to use our land, as needed. As we own a seasonal cabin, we are there mostly on weekends. Our place of peace no longer exists.

I have found the courage to use my voice and often coming from a place of anger, not always pleasant, nor are they. The banter continues; often they say, “I can’t hear you.” Which doesn’t surprise me, I often come upon deaf ears. They will also state “You don’t own the water.” But do they? They act as if they do. So if they do, I have to believe we do, too. The fact is we do own the property adjacent to the water. Our bit of paradise has become a partygoers’ destination. A beach for families and friends. No longer our land, but their water. The campground on the lake doesn’t offer a beach, so I know several of their guests frequent the area — but not limited to just them — many are property owners on the lake and a few are visitors who just don’t know better.

My partner Dave has been working with authorities to determine our rights as the landowners. If lack of funds weren’t an issue we could litter that lovely little piece of paradise with big boats, jet skis, pontoons and all our friends every weekend. Or I could follow my dream and open a retreat center. For now, that isn’t our reality. Our wish is to preserve for future generations. We’ve been blessed to have inherited one piece of property and recently purchased the end spot from a gracious family. The previous owner, Emmette Anderson, whom I looked up to as a mentor, taught me the importance of honoring the land and preserving the property. We plan to continue his work.

If nothing more, this has been a lesson on how to be heard and how to use my voice effectively. I intend to rise to the occasion. So if you plan on hanging out on the point and I’m there, you’ll know it. No longer will I remain silent. God protects us. I pray.

Kim Buskala, Cloquet