The wintry ocean reminds me of my father. We go to the
beach in Florida every winter, the blankets of white sand, the icy waters
crashing against the sharp rocks, the warmth of the sun bursting between shades
of grey clouds. I remember how green it still was, when all had turned to brown
back at home. I remember the joy of being away, and how fun it was to let go
when I got the chance. There was no snow there, or ice. Life seemed to have
passed though winter completely unaware of its absence. Winter, however, is my
favorite seasons. Still, perhaps a break can be rejuvenating. When I would
return home, it was as if I’d woken up from a dream. Reality, shockingly, still
managed to survive perfectly well without me there. He always promised we’d go
back next year. And we always have. I don’t intend to stop now, even when a
time in my life is ending and another is beginning. I need to hold on to this
tradition, even if it may seem childish. There are some dreams that you can
come back to in your sleep, and this dream has always been an inviting one. I
smile when I think of those trips to Florida with my dad, and I smile when I think
of those journeys still yet to come. Sometimes I wonder if this dream will come
to cease, forever. I hope not. Sometimes it can be nice not to have to wake up.
I don't think it's childish at all to want to continue this lovely tradition. Sounds like you gain so much from these little getaways. I can relate to this line: "Reality, shockingly, still managed to survive perfectly well without me there." I've thought that before after being out of the loop for a while. How do they manage without ME??? : )
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