I peeked through the dense trees that lined the shore of Radhanagar beach and caught a glimpse of the picturesque landscape that lay beyond; framed by palm leaves, a long stretch of white sand lay open and still, glittering in the bright afternoon sunlight. Having walked far away from the crowds gathered further down the beach, I felt like I had found a secret corner, removed from the world – the perfect place to enjoy a quiet afternoon with my thoughts.
I sat on the warm sand, and took in the expanse of nature around me – magnificent, breath-taking, and completely silent. Suddenly feeling very small, I looked towards the water, which was invitingly calm, reflecting the clear light blue colour of the sky above.
As I waded into the sea, I glanced down and was surprised to find that the water was perfectly clear. As gentle waves lifted me up and down, I looked back at the wild shoreline, lined with palm trees and dense undergrowth. There was something other-worldly about this secluded beach, seemingly so far away from the hustle and bustle of the human world, enveloped in a timeless stillness.
I was reminded of the land of the lotus-eaters.
It was the sun that betrayed the passing of time, as it slowly sank lower in the sky. I returned to the beach and lay on my back, watching the sky change from a crisp, light blue, to a fiery mix of pink, orange and purple.
I lay there, basking in the stillness around me, feeling truly safe and at peace. I saw the sun disappear below the horizon, and although I did not want to go, I knew it was time for me to leave. So I got up, dusted myself off, took one last look around me, and headed home.