The Pier at night

Last night (which as I type, is still my 'night') I went to the pier.
I have always loved going to the pier at night.
The loneliness. The quietness. The darkness. Coolness (as in, temperature wise)
I am a loner. Learned that a while back. Through high school. If I was surrounded by friends, it was no more than a handful of them. I don't like being in groups. I don't socialize well. I'm introverted, very socially introverted, and awkward with communication and people.
So, my loneliness comes in handy. I don't need to worry about being awkward. What to say. What not to say. Coming off as dumb. Coming off as strange.

That aside. I enjoy being alone. As much as also longing for a friend. One on one friendships are totally easy for me. But, right now, loneliness is all life has to offer me. At night.
I work alone. Yet, I work for people all night long. Not a big deal. I don't have to see them face to face. Communication is so much easier via phone!

So, usually when I go to work, I go to the pier before my shift.
It relaxes me. I get the fresh air I need. And, I get my awesome fix of quietness and loneliness. But best of all, I get to hear my beloved sea lions. They are the most wonderful creatures to listen to at night. Their barking really brings a smile to my face. Sometimes tears. They are the perfect example of social behavior. If only I was a sea lion, I'd get along just fine with them.

Last night I went per my usual routine. Drove to the pier. Parked the car. Got out. Walked to the end of the pier. And people watched. Listened to my sea lions.

As I was reaching the end, I saw this couple on a date. Perhaps it was early relationship, or first few dates. They were pretty cozy. Seemed quite taken by one another. Loving. Friendly. Cute.
Both attractive. Both lively. Both silly.

I loved staring at them.
They walked so carelessly, so freely. Chilly.

I went about my business, let them be.
After it was time for me to get back, I started my drive back to land.
The couple also started walking back to the street, and they were dancing. He was twirling the lovely girl. They saw me coming, so they tried to get out of my way. Doing so, the guy tripped, and fell.
He quickly got up, and went to the pedestrian side of the pier. As I drove past them, they turned to see me.
The guy quickly gave me a hats off salute, to which I said "You guys are just so silly. Thank you for making me smile. I love you!" And they curtsied for me.
It was a lovely night.
As I drove to work, I decided to stand at the rooftop of my work place.
There, I gave a 360* of my gorgeous city. I could still hear my sea lions barking. Santa Barbara is such a gorgeous glistering city. And at night, the most peaceful place to be is at the pier it has to offer.

It made me realize. I am home. And I am ever so grateful my friend invited me to live with her, when I felt I had no place to go, 13 years ago. I made my way home. And back again.
Thank you, Elia. You are the very reason, I am here. And my family, for having grounded me. Home is where the heart is, and my heart is Santa Barbara. Especially the pier at night.