On a hot summer afternoon, there is nothing quite like sitting under a canopy and feeling a breeze across sunburned skin. Goosebumps can appear if the air is cool enough.  The wind is wonderful.

I imagine too what it must feel like to actually ride the wind.  I mean face a strong wind full force, let it buffet me and ruffle my feathers.  Let it force me backward with its strength.  Rise up or drop down as the current allows.  React and adjust and embrace the power that will, eventually , move me forward.  The wind is awesome.

Recalling the picture of two young lovers poised at sunset on the bow of the Titanic, I affirm that it is the way I want to experience life.  Fearlessly, passionately, joyfully (within the limits of these old bones!)  I will avoid the safety (and sometimes pettiness) of conversations in the library and choose instead the raw existence on deck where I can taste, smell, feel and see sky and sea, wind and wave.

Today I will follow the advice of Camus: "Live to the point of tears."

When have you experienced that sense of riding the wind?

What brings you to tears - of sorrow or of joy?