In my family there is a turn of phrase that is often used. “Every
storm runs out of rain.” We use it as a form of encouragement with one another
when life seems to be taking its’ toll. There is a place in the area that is
very dear to me which in my opinion freezes time and helps create just such an
opportunity for serenity and mindfulness. It is a little corner of the earth where the air sparkles
with mischief and calm. The manifestation of dichotomy: Where the mouth of the
rushing river meets the mighty power of the Salish sea. Seated in the sands of
time here it is hard not to visualize all of the generations of children who
have climbed this very coastline; Catching fish, crawdads, swimming and
communing joyfully in a place that is free from any struggle. The crisp air is
fresh in your nostrils with just a tinge of salt and kelp. When you exhale you
can almost taste the dank shade of earth and moss across your palette.
Breathing in your surroundings you may well become overwhelmed with the colors
that the environment evokes. Sharp green leaves, with dark rich peat brown;
Blues and golds as the sun hits the water; the silver lining of the clouds as
they cover the trees is unmistakable. You can see and even feel the two mighty
waters rushing to meet one another in an embrace as old as their friendship. If
you recline with your face toward the tributary, the panoramic view is unlike
any other place in the world. To the left you can see the valley unfold itself
all the way to the cascade mountains. Behind you are trees, bushes and fields
gently cradling you into this place of womb-like, comfortable isolation. To the
right: the broad and sweeping waters of the sea; powerful grey-blue frothy
waves come barreling haughtily into the lands where my bones belong. The rocks and drift
wood on the bank briny, sun baked and water worn; clank against each other to
tell the story of all of that has happened under their guardianship. Each gleaming
ripple in the sand a silent homage to eons of experiences. The sedimentary
stones show-off their layers. All of the eras of pressure and struggle joined
together to form a beautiful and ageless, powerful wonder. It would be a challenge
to marvel in all of the majesty here and not feel whole. The waters here are my
own lifeblood and sometimes while enjoying the silt against my scalp I think
that I may just feel the restorative influence of salmon returning to their
home in my veins. From the berries to the sun, from the clear water to the sea,
everything about this place is fecund and sacred. This little cove is in every
way a place of peaceful worship.
I commented on Validia's blog and on Kim's blog
I commented on Validia's blog and on Kim's blog
Amazing! You're so good with words, and I absolutely love the quote. Mainly because of how tough my life has been for me ever since I got sick over two years ago so I struggle with severe general anxiety. Love this :)
ReplyDeleteI'm glad that you enjoyed it, and I'm sorry that you struggle with anxiety. I have worked in the behavioral health field for several years now and I know how hard that can be. Good on you for continuing on despite the challenges, it is a brave and wonderful path you're forging. Not everyone can do what you're doing so I hope that you are proud of your accomplishments! For what it's worth, I'm proud of you too!
DeleteYou are great with your words, and I look forward to reading your work. It was very descriptive and I could picture such detail in your location.
ReplyDeleteThank you Shelbee, I appreciate your support. I really enjoy reading your work as well, we have quite the group of writers in this class!
DeleteThis is amazing! You are so descriptive and I really feel like I am there! Looking forward to reading your essay!
ReplyDeleteThank you Validia! I loved your work as well! I can't wait to read everyone's essays it should be time enjoyably spent!
DeleteThis is beautiful! I loved how you personified the ocean hitting the shore, the rocks, the beauty in your writing. This is a gorgeous scene and truly excellent use of show vs. tell details.
ReplyDeleteThank you very much, I appreciate your words of encouragement and your feedback!
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