A Walk in the Sun.
We went walking in the sunshine
though It was thirty degrees Fahrenheit
with a harsh wind
that was blowing in off the sea.
The air that filled our lungs
and at times, would take our breath away
was refreshing and salty.
We welcomed it though we could feel
the chill in our bones
and the rawness on our cheeks.
We still inhaled the briny aroma
of the breaking ocean.
Our covered ears could still hear
the lashing and crashing
of the waves against the rocky coast
and the concrete seawall.
We occasionally would stop to admire
the power of the battering sea.
It was massive in its view
and humbling in its strength.
We would seek shelter from the wind
on the leeward side of the performance center
that was built jutting out onto the sandy shore.
The promenade was nearly empty.
The arcades, restaurants, and Casino
were shuttered for the winter.
Since we had moved north some 50-60 miles
Into the state of New Hampshire
this beach became our favorite walking place.
Two and half miles of walkway, with benches and restrooms.
We would park midway
and walk one half of the span
then return to the parking lot.
There was no charge for parking
this time of the year, but in the summer
It’s downright ransom-like.
On this particular day, the sea seemed
more energetic and of higher tide than normal.
Being new to the area, we thought nothing of it.
We drove home and continued our normal routine
The following morning’s news broadcast
reported the massive flooding that occurred
at the very beach we had walked.