Crossing our path

Here, and almost everywhere
along the well-worn coast path
there are everyday encounters
as we stand aside
for one another,
greeting and acknowledging
our friendly fellow-walkers.

It is but brief, the contact,
with those who cross our path.
The sharing shapes the moment
and protects, preserves those seconds,
sometimes minutes, that we engage
in undirected and unfettered
conversation.

The words exchanged
can open windows,
most of which will close again
as memory subsides.
Some windows though
have wider vistas
and the brief encounter
becomes a channel
for recollection and reward.

There rarely is a sequel.
It is not needed.
Such treasure-seeded moments,
now and then,
are in themselves enough.