language of the waves

knowing when to pull back

the waves from the ocean brush up against the sand on the beach as if they were meant to stay forever.

they lean into the sand with so much intention, and then they pulled back.

but not in regret.

the ocean knows that staying too long wouldn’t be gentle to either of them. therefore it retreats, carrying pieces of seashells and memories, but leaving behind what it was never meant to hold.

pulling back isn’t always loss, sometimes it is necessary. it’s the quiet recognition that what you want and what is good for you are not the same thing. nevertheless, the waves return anyway—again and again—to bring balance to the world.

the ocean teaches what it means to love without hurting, and that is to know when distance is the kindest choice for us, loving and leaving gently when it’s not kind to us—and retreat to a world that is kind to us.