[Originally published 7th April 2011]

Since my recent beachside relocation, I have come to enjoy some quiet moments on the bench at the end of my street. This is a special bench, and not just because it sits right on the edge of the beach, overlooking the water – it’s a perfect spot at sunset – my bench is special because it requires nothing from me, or you for that matter…

The bench doesn’t need me…

… to look good. So I don’t have to worry about the way I look, my outfit, my hair, my weight,…

… to listen. So I don’t have to pay attention.

… to lead or teach. So I don’t have to have any answers.

… to pay up front. So money isn’t an issue here.

… to be anywhere by a certain time. So my time is my own.

… to make conversation. So I can sit in silence.

During my  time on the bench, I am everything I need to be, and have everything that I need.

So if you’re like me, and get a little overwhelmed with life sometimes, go sit on a bench by the beach for a little while (or your “beach bench” equivalent) and let yourself just be un-needed for a while.

“Do try it”… (said in the voice of that guy from the Dilmah ads…)