Born Free

The sand felt soft against her feet. Ah....what a relief to take off the high heels, and feel the softness of the white sand! The waves came roaring from the distance, and gently lapped against her legs, blessing her steps.

Silence everywhere - but for the cry of the seagulls. They kept swooping down, looking for scraps of food - and when none were forthcoming, decided to leave her alone. She lay down on the sand, undisturbed. Beneath the wide blue skies, nothing restraining her, she found a sense of peace. What a change from the skyscrapers that seemed to hem her in, and stifle her spirit.

Here she was just a being - a free spirit. Not a mother. Not a daughter or sister. Not even an employee. Here at last, she can lay down arms, entrust herself to the elements - and be completely irresponsible.

*-*-*

The lush forest was very cool and easy on the eyes. Nothing is more refreshing than a walk in the mountains. The upper level of the mountain was intersected by a cloud.....must be misty out there. The faint smell of eucalyptus felt comforting, healing....and brought with it a sense of deja vu.

She pulled her sweater close, remembering the warmth of a pair of arms that had enclosed her many moons ago in that very same spot. She smiled at the workings of the mind. How it conceals memories, keeping them wrapped under several layers of consciousness, finally unfurling some long-forgotten events with a clarity that took her breath away.

She walked along the suddenly familiar road, towards the waterfall. This was a spot quite unknown to most, and deserted for the most part. But for the screams of a distant eagle, there was only the sound of the waterfall.

The rushing water looked beautiful, and serene. Throwing off her shawl, she stood under it - the shock of the cold water causing her to throw back her head and laugh with complete abandon. A bird that flew overhead paused midway at the sound, and continued on. What a treat it was to be alone, and invisible!

*-*-*

The screen beeped, bringing her back to earth. "Client Meeting at 2:30 pm", it said.

She clicked a button to dismiss the reminder, and got up with a sigh. Wonder what the client wanted this time. The previous product release had gone successfully, except for a few glitches. Nothing too major. All it needed was a few cups of coffee, and a few sleepless nights.

Her work calendar was full. No vacation for the next few months. Her home calendar was full too, with a traveling husband and two children she was practically raising solo. The days were a blur. Evenings had her stepping out one door and in the next - getting out of the high heels and donning an apron.

But no problem, she can sneak short vacations into her schedule. Yesterday she had bathed under a waterfall in the Nilgiris, the scent of eucalyptus filling the air. The day before she had been to a beach in Florida and lain under azure skies, with only the seagulls for company.

Her days may be full and her evenings filled with the responsibilities. But nothing constrains the mind.....and in that lay her freedom.