The air is different here—
unspoiled, relaxed
with a festive undertone that conveys unity and camaraderie.
It’s exactly what I need
to forget the bickering of a belligerent boss.
This beach,
with its warm white sand that shifts underneath my feet,
keeps the noise at my back
and the light to my face.
Playful breeze cocoons in a refreshing blast.
Salty mist tickles my nose.
I smile.
Two steps take me to where the sand breaks the foamy ocean water
and the incoming wave washes my feet.
Before me, aqua blends into a deep blue
as it stretches towards the sky.
I smile and tread on.
The Caribbean Sea hugs my waist,
waves break against me
and the roaring surf drifts into background noise
as I fully submerge in the moment.

Another step and I’m assaulted by the subway.
Stifling humidity barrel from the tunnels,
echoes of the evening crowd drench me all at once,
forcing my daydream away.
And when the train screeches from the station,
it takes paradise with it.

Still, I smile.

Maybe not today…
but someday.

Editor: Shannon Hensley