A Walk in the Sun

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.