The Sunday That Changed Everything

Marie Smith

It was a beautiful Sunday afternoon, the sun was splitting through the trees and I decided to sit in the park. The park was full of life and colour, so many around me enjoying the precious sunny moments. I walked up one of the hills to find a quieter spot, as soon as I sat I felt peace and I remember smiling to myself. It gave me a chance to breathe, relax and to ponder.

I remember after sitting there for a few minutes having a feeling that something was going to happen. I don't know where this idea came from. It just seemed to pop into my head and I began to feel excited. I looked at the tree full of white blossom just to my right.

Its beauty made me smile and made me brave.

A simple text... a few words on a phone

"Are you free to meet?"

"I'm free right now"

Somehow with your reply came the realisation that a line had been crossed. Unspoken feelings were being laid bare. You arranged to meet me. As I got into your car, I knew all was going to be good.

A few words on a Sunday afternoon and our friendship became something more. It became what it was always meant to be. There were so many emotions; relief, joy, happiness, excitement, but most of all peace.

We decided to celebrate with a mini adventure.

We drove to the beach.

The sun set as we walked amongst the rock pools. All those barriers we'd previously had were gone. We spoke openly and honestly enjoying a new intimacy. Quietening ourselves only to listen to the gentle sound of the waves lapping against the rock and to look at the stunning scenery. The sky seemed so vast and the water so still. It was perfect.

Surrounded by beauty and calm, we knew that this day was only the beginning.