Walking the Beach

In the seventies this afternoon with some sun filtering through the clouds so I went for a very long beach walk. Walking on the beach is such a peaceful and prayerful activity for me. The pace of the steps and the rhythm of the breathing are comforting. I like to watch the people on the beach too. Like the shell seekers with their eyes down and intensely concentrating on every square inch in front of them and the joy when they find a treasure, or the romantics hand in hand as they stroll along gazing at each other and the ocean, or the exercise walkers who push ahead with gusto stretching out with every step. I have to admit I've been all of those. I loved to walk hand in hand with Marsha in the place we both loved, I would hunt for sharks teeth in the sand from time to time, and I would walk rapidly down the beach and back for my cardiac workout and then if it was warm enough to plunge into the water to cool off. Today I was in the exercise mode but all three groupings were present on the beach. I also walk by these giant expensive homes that overlook the ocean with balconies and decks right there with the beach in front of them. I don't see anyone out enjoying what they have paid so much to have, while thanks to the inexpensive access of Myrtle Beach State Park I get to enjoy what I didn't have to pay for. I do love my cheap walk on the beach.