Untied

Sometimes after swimming in the ocean a surge of emotion rises up: sorrow, anger, joy. Sometimes a mélange. I’ve learned to ride it like a swell, and listen to what it has to say.

Gratitude emerged last Sunday: to my mother for taking me to the sea; to my father for teaching me how to swim; to both for instilling in me a love of words and good writing. I have all I need to be happy. The rest is up to me.

This week I gave notice to the marina and put the 4Runner on the market. Strong north winds are blowing me south. Time to sail away! It’s a big wide wonderful world, and, luckily, I have also learned that I can handle anything. Don’t get me wrong: Panic and Anxiety are still regular visitors. But not quite as often, and I am learning to discern their messages too.

Release those lines, baby. We are casting off.