January 3, 2026
Evening Reflections
Manhattan Beach Sunset: Under the Pier, even in the Rain…
I walked down to pier, unsure if the sun would show itself through the clouds. The rain was whisper-light, the tide was low, and the ocean hummed its evening song beneath the Manhattan Beach Pier. The beach shimmered with reflections — little mirrors of sky and city lights, rippling with Christmas tree shapes painted by the water.
The sanderlings were out in full force, their tiny feet racing across the sand like sparks of joy, darting toward the foam as big waves crashed behind them. The ocean was wild with energy tonight, but beneath the pier, everything felt peaceful. Sacred. Held.
And then I saw it — a brief glimpse of sunshine. Soft and golden, like a quiet “hello” from heaven. Just a slice, just a moment, but enough to remind me that even when the skies are gray, light still finds us if we’re paying attention.
I never miss the sunset — not even when it hides. Because keeping a promise to yourself matters. Showing up for your own commitments matters. The beauty of the ritual is in the showing, not the seeing.
Tonight, I’m grateful for the ocean’s roar, the rain’s tenderness, the birds’ wild little hearts, and for the gentle way the world glows back when we open ourselves to it.
A tsunami of blessings, indeed.
—April
Evening Gratitude Thought:
Even when the sun hides behind clouds, I walk to it anyway. The tide reflects Christmas trees, The birds race with joy, The rain taps soft applause, and for one small moment — a sunbeam says hello. My life is a tsunami of blessings, And I am grateful to be here, exactly where I’m meant to be.
