Welcoming the Ocean

It was a beautiful December day in Harlingen, Texas. We left early in the morning for a day trip to the ocean. I had been dreaming of this day for months.

I’d had a difficult year and this was my healing trip. I was going to see my son and finally meet his girlfriend’s family. This trip was a Christmas present from her parents for my daughter and me.

It was a scenic drive. I enjoyed the car ride especially because I wasn’t driving. I do get tired of driving and I love being a passenger and just enjoying the scenery.

I knew when the ocean was near because I could smell the salty ocean air. Then it was there, the ocean. My excitement was taking over my senses. 

The car was parked and we started to walk towards the beach. I was finally walking on the sand. There was nothing but water in front of me. The horizon was sky and ocean. It  looked like you could sail off the edge of the earth. 

Jalila was by my side. This was the first time that she had seen the ocean. She thought it was an amazing sight. We both took off our shoes and felt the sand between our toes. I love the way the sand felt. Jalila not so much.

We then walked to the edge of the ocean. I felt like I had come home. Even though I have never lived anywhere near the ocean. 

The ocean waves decided that all of our being should feel its cool wetness. The waves hit us and we struggled to keep standing. Jalila left my side because she didn’t want to get too wet.

I pulled my shirt up and welcomed the ocean waves to soothe my scars. I felt the healing touch of the mysterious and magical spirits that make the ocean their home. It was a very spiritual experience for me.

 I went there knowing that I was going to welcome everything that the ocean would give me. It was an experience that will be forever in my mind’s eyes. Yes, I welcomed it all.

~Rita Romero