she walks the Assateague beach before sunrise

feeling the sand between her toes

pausing to listen to the gentle crashing waves

watching the birds run in and out of the waters edge

too early for the daily onslaught summer tourists

only locals venture out at dark o’thirty

some come to ride the surf

others stroll with morning coffee in hand

she stands still as the first jewel of sunshine appears

the sky painter had chosen mostly orange today

tinting the high clouds pale pink in honor of the approaching sun

the birds line up to watch the sunrise

the sun climbs up out of the ocean

like an awakening giant

only ever seen with the naked eye near the horizon

all other times his power must be worshiped through sunglasses

with eyes closed she pays homage to the morning sun

willing her mind to absorb the energy falling on her face 

whispering thank you to the universe for another beautiful day

it only takes a few minutes to fully recharge her soul

the birds return to feeding in the surf

she heads back to the parking lot

exchanging smiles with the the wet suited surfers heading to the water

on the drive home she passes the first waves of tourists

while the screaming crowds devour their sand encrusted lunch on the Assateague beach

she is home alone reading meditating and enjoying her inner peace

as the sun sets she feels the last of his energy leaving her body

she sleeps soundly dreaming of tomorrows Assateague sunrise