Solitude

I’ve spent the weekend by myself on the Oregon coast while Brent and two of his sons enjoy a boys’ weekend at our house. It’s exactly what we needed.

Early this morning, I took a walk on the beach, found myself staring up at the moon. It was just sitting there, suspended, motionless yet moving at gigantic speeds, held at a distance by a force I don’t understand, manipulating the ocean in front of me with its pull.

Yesterday, I watched two children building a sand pyramid on the edge of the surf. From here – a second-floor perch with a front row seat—the waves looked to be ready to swallow them whole. Such power and volume smashing down behind them. They played and re-built their pyramid over and over again. Their joy a reminder.

I had a purpose when I planned this trip. Brought a padded envelope stuffed with poems I’ve written, hoping to find enough good ones for a small book. I did, and I might. What ended up being most important was being quiet. I haven’t spoken to anyone in three days save a brief check-in with Brent on Saturday.

The beach. The ocean. It always works.

My brother and me a long time ago

Thank you