The Red Parasol
The Red Parasol Contest
Sponsor: Eve Roper
Wandering along the soft shores of Vermont,
I carry my red parasol as Bluebell shares fond
memories with me of good times with her lover.
I listened with intent, but my mind escapes into
vivid visions of my journey along these exact
shores. I remember the tender blue hues of the
sky that day. It was a day exactly like today. I
turned to Bluebell and spoke with grace about
my beloved husband, God rest his soul. He
was my red parasol during life’s showers and
my love for him is embraced every time I come
here. He always knew when I needed the cool
waterfront. As we were strolling, I smelled the
drift of the waters and took a deep breath. I then
inhaled the moisture as we roamed over the
rocky ground. The air filled my lungs like my
lover’s touch. The mist smelled like comfort and
the ocean screamed of contentment. I knew today
would be a better day. I saw a murky shadow in
the midst of the breeze. I noticed a young lady
standing closer to the shore. She seemed sad
and lonely. We walked over to her and instantly
I felt her despair. For she had just lost her beloved
husband also. We welcomed her and she spoke
of the tides that had been crushing her life lately.
I asked her to keep walking with us along the border
of the seaside. I told her to take a deep breath
and embrace the coastline of this life. Yes, our true
loves had been lost in flesh, but not in spirit. The
waves lapped and the somber day came to an end.
We walked together towards the grass. I felt simply
refreshed from the day’s gift of the sound of waves
gently crashing. I needed the sand in my toes and
the fresh fragrance of the sprinkling haze to console
me. The seaside reminded me of all the goodness
in my life. It was pure and virtuous and so was I.
For I shall never forget the way my lover protected
me with his red paper parasol. The daily drizzles
never had a chance with him by my side. Oh, how
he moved me, as did the calmness of the beach.
Date Written: June 13, 2016
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