Arrivals and Departures

I arrived at Brighton train station yesterday looking like a drowned rat. I had been in Brighton for the day and unfortunately the heavens had well and truly opened, completely unforgiving to those of us who had forgotten an umbrella. I was at the station waiting for Simon to make his way there as we had gone our separate ways during the afternoon. I felt sodden, cold and looked a mess.

However whilst standing there I noticed things about the station I hadn't really seen before. I like people watching, I find it fascinating, and just standing at the station on that wet Saturday afternoon made me realise what an emotional place it is.

There are the arrivals; people standing around waiting to greet friends and loved ones off of the heaving trains with hugs and kisses which envelope their whole being.

And then there are the departures.

A couple stood embraced in each others arms. There were long lingering kisses, whispers in ears, the stroking of hair. Just trying to make the precious time together last a little longer. Holding on to one another until the very last moment before he has to run for his train. There are backwards glances, both unwilling to give into their parting.

And then they are gone.