Life is a Beach

I returned recently from Copalis Beach in Washington State. I had a great time with family, enjoying activities such as horseback riding, playing a spirited baseball game, strolls along the beach and camp fires at night. In between those great moments I even managed to sneak in time for some inspired writing. Every day started with a spectacular sunrise, followed by beautiful warm and sunny weather, and ended with stunning sun sets.

Every day except one. The attached photo gives a snapshot of what that day looked like. Choppy waves and grey sky. I got caught in a vicious sandstorm on the beach during my morning run. The wind raged at such force that it blew sand into my eyes and nose making it difficult to see and breathe. There was a point at which I lost my beach marker and therefore, my direction, which was not a good thing considering the beach goes on for more than twenty miles. And then came the torrential rain. It was not a good day at the beach!

It was at that point that I remember thinking about the popular saying, Life is a Beach. My experience that morning reminded me, in both the literal and figurative sense, that not every day is filled with tranquil moments of blue skies and beautiful weather. Life also involves rocky and unsettled moments. Acknowledging this reality helped me put the momentary challenge in context and helped me appreciate the good days all the more. On the morning in question, the storm eventually subsided and a rainbow graced the sky. Life is a Beach!