moment in Italy

I knew I wasn’t dreaming

but it was like I was

walking slowly toward the sea

empty houses

off season I guess

or just quietness

shops with smiling people

I was almost alone

for many moments I could see no one else

slumber on a sunny afternoon

waves sang as I walked the beach

looking for a shell

proof that I had been there alone

rows of empty beach chairs

this time was mine with the sea

a much welcomed silence

to just be.