Cleanse: On beautiful, sparkling baubles on the seashore
It’s April and it’s too cold for my liking. There’s a bitter chill that cuts right through you, makes you want to hide under seven blankets. Here’s another Spring letter manifesting warmth. Not a scary one, but minor TW: light sensuality. Thanks again for stopping by!
Wake up.
You’re on a riverbank, your body encrusted with sand. After dozing off in the afternoon sun, your complexion is hot to the touch. Large pillowy blisters cover your arms, legs and shoulders. Your skin will soon begin to peel.
Perhaps sunburn is a nice way to welcome in the change of seasons. Shedding your thick winter layers to make way for more kind, temperate weather.
You are alone. The world is quiet, save for birds chirping, bees buzzing and the wind whistling through the trees. You toss pebbles into the river and ripples echo outward. Some sink quickly while others dance and skip.
“Come to me. Let me hold you.”
A gust of wind pushes you toward the water and you hear someone whisper your name. A soft voice: not overly masculine or feminine. It sounds kind and gentle. You dip a toe into the river and feel its icy grasp shoot up your leg. It is far too cold for your liking. The hair on the back of your neck stands on end.
“Let me soothe your burns. Take off your clothes and ease in.”
You glance around coyly, unsure about getting completely naked. What if someone sees you? A soft whine escapes your mouth as you struggle with the decision. The cold water might feel good on your skin though…Just to rinse the sand off.
“Be with me.”
As the voice fills your head, you shed of your clothing without a second thought.
You know the water is cold, but it’ll be worse if you go slowly. Rather than wading, you plunge in.
“Deeper.”
When you resurface, a huge smile is spread across your cheeks.
Crystal beads drip down your chest and you scrub your body of grit.
You giggle, feeling a complete release from skinny dipping. It’s not something you’d normally do by yourself, but the experience is freeing.Your heart is racing and the spontaneity feels good. Intoxicating even.
“The discomfort will pass.”
The water’s gentle undulation carries you. Colorful creatures live along the floor, tiny fish dart under you and nip at your toes. You’ve discovered a new world.
The voice in your head is soon replaced with the sound of rushing water. Or has the rushing water always been the voice? Bubbles and froth surround you and as you gaze up, you find yourself at the base of a waterfall.
How have you never noticed this before?
Best not to worry about it.
You don’t have a map, you don’t have a compass. All you have is the sun.
Seashells, candles, sand-filled glass bottles, pearls and coral are artfully arranged into an altar. This space feels sacred.
A figure, draped in white linen and flowing blonde hair, appears at your side. You wonder if this has been the source of the voice all along. They motion toward a corner of the riverbank where the floor is thicker and softer.
“If you wish to be healed, spread this earth along your burns.”
The cool water was a temporary fix, but the ochre paste douses the burning. You breathe a sigh of relief.
“You may return to me as often as you like, so long as you always leave a gift.”
You ditched all of your belongings miles ago. A bead of sweat breaks out on your forehead. Their eyes twinkle and glow.
You could always leave a lock of hair…