The sounds and the sights of the sea

My eyes flutter open, and I sigh in exasperation. I sense it’s the middle of the night and my suspicions are confirmed when I notice the time – it’s 4:30am. I gaze into the darkness, my senses on high alert, despite the time.

I close my eyes and hear the sweet sounds of the sea nearby. The waves are lapping against the shore and a sense of calmness overwhelms me.

The window is opened slightly, but that doesn’t stop the sounds of the sea from reaching me.

I put my slippers on, and silently leave my bedroom. Moonlight shines into the living room, through the sliding door. I quietly part the curtains and walk onto the balcony.

A slight breeze grazes my face, and I notice the streets below are empty.  

My eyes gaze onto the beach and I have to blink twice, nearly shocked at what I’m seeing.

Normally I come outside during the night to listen to the waves, but I can never see the sea in the darkness.

Tonight is different.

The water is surrounded by the steady sound of crickets chirping, however what differs is the position of the moon. It has cast a shining light onto the sea, encircled by clouds. The water is calm, and I notice lights shining from the ships which can be seen in the far distance.  

My eyes remain fixated on the waves as they carelessly dribble onto the sand. I am hypnotized and I don’t want to move.

The water is therapeutic to me, not only when I watch, but also when I listen. The sounds sooth me, provide me with a sense of serenity which allow me to momentarily distract myself from reality.

And I think this type of distraction is something everyone needs, even if it’s only for a few minutes a day - does anyone agree with me?

 Note: here's a picture I took of the moonlight dancing on the water, at 4:30am in the morning on October 16th, 2024. Location: Durres, Albania.