Soaring

Around him, others are enjoying themselves, revelling in the conditions. They take the challenge of the high winds and the higher gusts as a dare, to lift off in the maelstrom and control movement as if to take charge of the wind. All he can do is watch.

He stands a distance from the water’s edge, amid tons of seaweed and slowly inches his way towards the churning sea. Around him the waves occasionally splash upward as they end their journey along the shoreline. Bravery is not his strong point he thinks as he watches the others, wings spread, soaring on the wind gusts. He’ll be an adult soon and others will wonder why he doesn’t play anymore. Thing is, he never did, always afraid to throw caution to the wind and soar with it. Maybe today…

A couple arrived and watched too. He’s seen them numerous times before when they stop at the salt marsh. They watch the flock with interest as it lifts, floats and falls on the currents. They see him too, but move on watching other birds around the bridge. 

Later, when the couple returns, they notice his absence from the seaweed. Meanwhile, along the shoreline, the flock continues to soar on the wind. Is he there with them? The couple likes to think so.