This Is Where I Belong

   Awaking before dawn seems to be a lifelong habit of mine.  Try as I might, I cannot "sleep in".  It does not happen.  At 4 am, I start to rouse and by 4:30, I may as well roll out of bed.  At that time, sleep is nonexistent.  So, after the prerequisite mug of strong, black coffee, I head to the pier.  There, I can do my morning routine of stretches and meditation which readies me to face the craziness of the day.  That predawn time is "my time".  It is where I can come to terms with all the world has to throw at me.  As you know, that routine was rudely interrupted on July 2nd by a sudden disease that rendered me incapable of doing much.  It took nigh on two months before I was able to regain my strength and balance.  Finally, this week, I have the approval from all doctors to return to my normal routine and that includes the treks to the pier!  Time to rejoice!

  This morning, the sunrise made me stop the exercises and physical therapy to just sit and stare.  I felt almost as if this was the first time I had ever witnessed the sunrise, the first time I have ever heard a mullet jump or a pelican diving or the first time of smelling the marsh and saltiness of the water.  I was in awe.  It is wondrous how when returning to something after an absence, the senses try to make up for lost time.  This little bayou is paradise!  This is where I belong.  Its good to be back.