How many people stop to look at dunes?
Before crossing the boardwalk to the beach in Spring Lake?
It’s tempting to run past.
Set feet on sand.
Cool off in steady surf.
But, if you pause, the fragrance of untamed roses intoxicates.
Elegant blooming sweet peas stretch.
Into hillsides of pink poetry.
Blowing this way, that.
Attracting queen bumble bees.
Hosta lilies sway in unexpected pockets.
How did they find their way there?
Errant seeds settling in a tangled meadow?
Lush grasses, knotweed, tall curled red dock buffeting about.
All adding perspective, depth, dimension.
Sharp contrast to manicured gardens around houses.
Cared for by professionals for landscaping perfection.
No, here on dunes, it’s natural.
Plants growing untamed, wild.
A sight to soften senses.
Meet Mother Nature’s child.
Lynn Benjamin
June 18, 2024
