“What fire could
ever equal
the sunshine of
a winter’s day?” 
~ Henry David Thoreau

Despite the fact that the official start of winter (December 21st) is still more than two weeks away, we’re in the month of December now. Most of us, I would think, consider December to be part of the season of winter. For this reason, I was immensely grateful for the spectacular day I enjoyed yesterday in Half Moon Bay.

Walking along the water’s edge, the air was a comfortable 64º. An occasional gust of a light breeze reminded me that it was December. In the direct sunshine, however, the temperature felt more like the mid-70º’s. The sky, water, waves, rocks, and beach provided a serene backdrop for my gratitude walk.

It’s unfortunate that during the first eighteen years of my life, I rarely took advantage of the opportunity to spend time at the beach. Our family home on 38th Avenue in San Francisco was just ten short blocks from the Pacific Ocean. I have no recollection of ever walking to the beach to watch the sun set over the horizon. I did spend a few late-night weekend evenings during my early college years parked in the lot at the end of Sloat Boulevard enjoying the submarine races with a special friend. Never, however, did I spend time alone looking out over the ocean while thinking or praying about my life, my future, or the many blessings I received in my youth.

Having spent most of the past fifty-two years living in the Santa Clara Valley, I’ve missed being near the water. Now, I appreciate opportunities to spend time at beaches in The City, Half Moon Bay, Santa Cruz, and Pacific Grove. Whether I’m walking, sitting on a lawn chair or bench, or enjoying the view from an oceanside restaurant, I am tremendously grateful for the opportunity to breathe the fresh ocean air and take in the scenic views.

I began my adventure in Half Moon Bay yesterday with a walk along the pedestrian path near Miramar Beach. At several vantage points, I stopped to enjoy watching the incessant parade of waves rolling in. The gentle roar of the surf provided the perfect soundtrack for the experience. At one point, I just sat on a bench overlooking the bay and savored the overwhelming feelings of gratitude and solitude. I couldn’t help but wonder why I didn’t do this more often.

Before returning to the South Bay, I enjoyed a nice visit with my cousin, Debbie. She had driven down to Half Moon Bay from her home in Pacifica to meet me for a late lunch at the Miramar Beach Restaurant. Despite the calendar showing that it’s now December, we sat at a table on the outdoor patio with a view of the warm sun shining on the bay. It was delightful!

In light of this experience, one I hope to replicate on a more regular basis, I am better equipped to understand the insightful query of Henry David Thoreau quoted above.