Shifting sands

As regularly as it happens, I am always amazed at the changing contour of the beach, especially with the change of season. During autumn/winter storms, the surf pounds the beach, removing sand and eroding the dunes. A recent storm off the outer Cape caused this old peat road to become exposed on Nauset Beach. Carriage tracks clearly visible on the road surface, it has been incredibly preserved under the sand from generations ago. Upon closer examination, hoof prints can also be seen. Eventually the Atlantic will have its way with this road, breaking it into bits and pieces, and washing it all away.

This remnant of history, having once been inland, gives testimony to the ever changing dunes & shoreline. This makes me wonder just how many more generations will know the beach that I enjoy today, and certainly makes me appreciate the delicate condition of our beloved Cape Cod.

My brother left this comment, which I feel compelled to share: "Remember that mother nature always has its way . We are only here to see the beauty and destruction that it holds. Some times only for a moment or times that seem to last forever." Thank you, Joey...very well said!

While on the beach...

While on the beach this afternoon, I witnessed what was perhaps an intensely personal & private moment. A well dressed woman walked to the shore and tossed a pink rose into the water. She stood for only a moment or two and departed - leaving the rose to toss about in the surf. As it did, petals separated from the bloom and drifted - some washed ashore, where one was plucked up by a gull, and another was gently lifted up by the hand of a young child and added to her collection.
I wonder if this woman had just come from the funeral of a loved one and performed this ritual in memory of this dear friend who loved the ocean - this ocean and this beach. And I imagine that the spirit of that person goes on to serve those it touched, just as the rose petals left the bloom and drifted to new purposes.
I should hope that someday I will be remembered so beautifully.