These are certainly trying times for all of us with all of the uncertainty of the virus so it was somewhat of a relief to see some states begin to reopen while others are making plans in that direction.

I personally received some hopeful news today from my husband Will, who has spent these last several weeks working at our local hospital and today was informed by one of the doctors on staff that activity was beginning to slow down and they had not had to ventilate any patients for a few days and were not treating as many cases — very encouraging news!

Last Friday evening, WCSH in Portland asked that Maine residents join in a nationwide effort to thank those workers on the front line who make all of us safe each and every day from the virus by gathering and “making some noise.”

Ocean Point was certainly a part of this effort as approximately 35 people gathered on both sides of Shore Road in front of Sue and Paul Taylor’s home, social distancing of course, and making their own noise. The care and compassion that Ocean Pointers continuously show one another in times of strife is what makes our community so very special.

I was so pleased to recently receive a poem from Doreen Dun written by Doreen and Jim’s 13-year-old granddaughter, Julia Dun-Rappaport titled “Ode to Ocean Point, Maine,” which I would like to share with all of you. Julia certainly captures the essence of our community; it’s beauty and it’s people and stirred up many wonderful emotions in me as I read it.

Ode to Ocean Point, Maine

Oh Ocean Point,

You are always changing

Never twice the same.

Once the ocean crashes

But then it is tame.

The trees full in Summer

But bare when Winter came.

Oh scenic Ocean Point,

Loudly I proclaim

I adore your unpredictability.

Your adventures I acclaim.

Always a wild journey,

A daring, venturous game.

Your community of people

Is like a roaring flame

For their lively light shan’t be put out

Never a moment tedious or lame.

The sun is always smiling down

Without judgment or blame.

The beauty of the nature

Is worthy of great fame.

The trees and flowers

Beckon to me, calling out my name.

The sandy beach is full of stones.

I grasp one that I claim,

The surface smooth as satin.

Without particular aim

I wander the landscape,

Happy to exclaim,

Oh Ocean Point,

I hope that soon I can reclaim

Your wilderness.

You are like art without a frame.

Thank you Julia for sharing your very insightful and beautiful poem!

Stay healthy, strong and positive everyone!