To the Editor:

It was the first Monday of my August vacation. I was deeply engrossed in thought and gratitude for the lovely day that stretched before me. Sun. Sand. Family time. The first draft of my work in progress was complete and I had two weeks of bliss before me. We’d been here since Saturday, and today was my first solo walk to the beach – no spouse, child or grandchild accompanied me.

The only sounds were the muffled chatter of happy vacationers and the pounding of sneakered feet on the pavement.

August 13, 2025