Bath time

When I was young, baths were a given in abundance. As a child I had more time and was more dependent, the need for baths was obvious. Often on a daily basis my mother or father would fill up the bath water, pull a begrudging child into the bathroom and force me into the tub. Then I would try to speedily get everything done to get back to my day. I never took the time to appreciate them, why would I? They were simply a given, even an annoyance. I would hurry through my bath, jump out of the tub, and hardly dry off before my next activity.

Now that I am older, baths are rare. There is less time for them, and my assertion of independence warrants less need. Nevertheless, when they are available I consider them a luxury. I take time to let the water run for a while until it is quite hot. Fill the tub halfway,and then top it off with lukewarm water. As the second half is filling I find whatever soap might bubble the most, and I pour in a few drops. Beautiful bubbles begin to form all throughout the water.

While the water is still going I hop into the tub and lay down. Enjoying the feel of the water, the sound of running water, the texture of the bubbles. Pure momentary bliss.

However, as I sit in luxury the water gets cooler. The bubbles dissipate. The little drain halfway to the top of the tub licks in bits of water, to prevent overflow. I realize it's time to depart.

I sit in the tub and watch as the water forms a little tornado as it leaves. I get out and slowly dry off, contemplating all my subsequent daily activities. I take a breath, and move on.