In the cool January morning on the beach almost deserted
Ours to walk along the calm margin of the Gulf of Mexico
Alone with our thoughts looking out at the light glistening on the water
Breathing in the expanse of deep blue sky meeting the bright aqua sea.
The fine white sand underfoot formed of tiny bits of shell and limestone
Wet at the edge of the gentle waves receding and advancing
Pulled towards land by the moon and released twice a day
Such a strong attraction we see but do not feel the tug of the tide.
Patterns dance in the shallows reflecting and refracting the light
The undulating surface whispers rhythmically as wavelets splash ashore
The distant horizon line stretches out there so far everything else disappears
And even here at the shoreline we are small in this very large place.
The sanderlings patrol the wet sand probing for sand fleas
Tiny legs walking so fast, stopping and starting
Hesitating as we approach then darting past us
Busy with their search for sustenance.
The osprey sitting on its nest cries calling to its mate
Bring me a fish, I’m hungry and waiting so long!
The day is warming up fast under the subtropical sun
The sunbathers arrive and we take our cue to depart.
