Alone Together

Driving to the coast we laughed and listened to music, sharing in the excitement. In the parking lot we wrestled into our wet suits and watched the horizon. We tip-toed out on the rocks together. Then in one quick motion I plunged into the dark sea alone. Just me and the cresting expanse. Paddling madly in my voyage to who knows where. I sat up in the slate gray waters and thought of them. Where are they? Did they decide not to get in? Then I saw them bobbing toward me. A muted relief filled my chest. Two other surfers emerged on the outside and we exchanged waves till the two departed. Then we were alone together. The ocean. My friends. Myself.