Slice of Life Story Challenge March 4 - Arriving At Tranquility Base



This morning, time was devoted to planning. Two big presentations are due to be presented next week and so most of the morning was turned over to ensuring I am on track to deliver. I then took a break for coffee and a walk in the world that surrounds me. A writer must learn to move seamlessly between a writing space and the world beyond that space; to where ideas are harvested and stimulation is sought. There is a strong connection between these two zones. They possess a kind of inter-dependence.

In the afternoon I walked down to nearby Fisherman’s Beach to join my wife, Vicki who had ventured down earlier.

I stood on the headland overlooking the beach and stared out across the bay. It is officially autumn in Australia, but the beginning of the new season has been marked with sustained warmer weather. Summer appears reluctant to be assigned to history.

 A single red beach umbrella stood out along the stretch of beach. Vicki sat beside it reading her book. The sea presented as a turquoise gem sparkling under the sun. The beach becalmed except for the occasional puff of wind gently ruffling the surface. The shoreline was noticeably silent. The clarity of the water revealed its secrets. Every submerged rock visible to the gaze. At that precise moment we two owned the beach. Paradise it seemed was a place a short stroll from home.

Eventually other people chanced upon our tranquil location. They wandered by reverentially, respecting the silence of the scene. Even the seagulls refrained from squawking. A light breeze spoke in whispered tones.


 We both swam. The water was inviting, refreshing- a bit like champagne. As we sat looking out across the bay we remarked how fortunate we were to have this day, this afternoon, this shared time. Tranquil beach scenes are often fleeting.  This one seemed close to perfect. We both felt it. 

Comments

  1. Anonymous4 March 2016 at 21:25

    I love the line "The water was inviting, refreshing- a bit like champagne." That is so true. When there are waves and the foam bursts all around you that is just the perfect way to describe it. Qld has been soooo hot too and I wonder when this heat will yield to autumn ways.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Alan j Wright5 March 2016 at 13:28

      Thanks for the feedback. All too soon we will all 'yield to autumn ways' as you write. I actually enjoy autumn days. They bring a mellowness. Stay well in the far north of our island home.

      Delete
  2. Anonymous4 March 2016 at 22:53

    Tranquility place is a very beautiful place. This was a fun and unexpected read.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Alan j Wright5 March 2016 at 13:29

      Glad you enjoyed your reading. i enjoyed bringing it to you.

      Delete
  3. Deb Day5 March 2016 at 01:52

    I admit to being envious right now and wishing I was there. But my beach time will be here before I know it, so I'll be content with what you have shared.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Alan j Wright5 March 2016 at 13:30

      All those good days are on the way for you Deb. I am sure you will embrace them as I am presently doing.

      Delete
  4. Linda B5 March 2016 at 02:40

    Your place in life, near the water, with your wife, is something indeed to savor, and to write about. I love the easy tone you have in this writing, the way you shared each moment as you made it down to the beach and your wife. A loving piece, Alan.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Alan j Wright5 March 2016 at 13:32

      An easy tone inspired by an easy scene. Thank you Linda.

      Delete
  5. Joanne5 March 2016 at 02:56

    Thanks for sharing this small moment - how great to have a quiet beach if only for a little time. I love the beach but this line is what holds me in your writing

    A writer must learn to move seamlessly between a writing space and the world beyond that space; to where ideas are harvested and stimulation is sought. There is a strong connection between these two zones. They possess a kind of inter-dependence.

    Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Alan j Wright5 March 2016 at 13:34

      Embracing the simple pleasures is important. Thank you Joanne for your observations.

      Delete
  6. fireflytrails5 March 2016 at 05:39

    I am a bit jealous that "Paradise it seemed was a place a short stroll from home." Yet isn't that true for all of us, if we just take the time to find it? Thank you for this lovely description of such a perfect day.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Alan j Wright5 March 2016 at 13:35

      Thank you for the feedback on this observational piece. It was a pleasure to write and exemplified the notion of a writer living life twice.

      Delete
  7. elsie5 March 2016 at 06:21

    Just what the brain needed after an intense workout. So calming, your words and the photos.

    ReplyDelete

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