Authors’ Readings at Olde Towne Trading Post in Ilwaco, are held the fourth Wednesday. Last month, after I finished my dinner, I picked up a newspaper, and drove out on the Seaview beach approach for a few minutes to myself before setting off to moderate the gathering.
It was an overcast but dry day, the last moments of afternoon, and a gentle breeze floated through my open car windows. Everything was a soft, muted gray: ocean, sand, and sky. I sat quietly reading the newspaper, savoring some Junior Mints, looking up from time to time to watch the various beach goers passing by.
And then it happened—I was suddenly struck by an overwhelming sense of calm. Of serenity. Of beautiful, all-encompassing peace.
That’s all it takes for a single perfect moment: a newspaper, a box of Junior Mints, and an ocean view. I’m glad I was able to pause and acknowledge that event. There have been so many times in my life I’ve been “too busy” to see the beauty right before me. I’m grateful I’ve learned how to stop and smell the roses—even on the beach!
It truly doesn’t get any better than this
Next Authors’ Readings are this Wednesday, August 25 at 6 p.m.. Join us!