beach walk

as I walk
sand squelches between
my toes
waves lap at my ankles
one white shell
catches my eye
and I pick it up
hold it to my ear
but all I hear are gulls calling
their gusto
sharply contrasting
my peace

I am alone
wind whipping sand up
to tangle in my hair
and dune grass dry
and whispering secrets
in my ears
its volume barely louder
than my heartbeat
pounding in my ears

storm clouds gather
shading water
with old mystery
made new
before my eyes

word count: 88