Silent Companion

Think about this question for a moment: if you could be anywhere, at this very moment in time, where would it be? Quick! First thing that pops into your head! The first image that pops into my head is the glow of a full moon over the horizon of a black ocean. I'm standing at the water's edge as the waves gently lap at my feet. Stars speckle the black canvas that is the sky, my toes nestle into the wet sand, and I stare aimlessly out towards the neverending sea. I am at peace. The only sounds I can hear are the rustling of waves caressing the shore: inhale, exhale. I see a silhouette standing beside me, looking in the same direction; yet, I am unsure of who joins me. Words remain unspoken, lips sealed, eyes open. And then it hits me: this silent companion is not one person- yet a mosaic of every individual who has ever touched my life (however small or insignificant). Then, as a smile stretches across my face, realization sets in deep: my silent companion.... is me.

Photo courtesy of T. Thyberg