December 8, 2023


Unintended Consequence

Constructed of quarried boulders, the breakwater extends across the bay for about a mile. For those willing to make the intimidating walk across, you will be rewarded with secluded beaches, two lighthouses, and the chance to observe crabs, starfish, and maybe a seal along the way.

We checked the tide chart, so not to get stranded at high tide, and began our trek. Token, a little brown rescue dog found at a New York city subway station, came along. At almost the halfway point, Token decided to return to less challenging terrain. No matter our calls, Token never looked back, never slowed. Once we arrived back at the sandy beach where the breakwater begins, Token sat happily waiting for us.

        knowing eyes
        focused and patient . . .
        heron

Dan Hardison


Contempary Haibun Online
Issue 19.3, November 2023