Journey's Beginning (Day 1)

I sat down again and watched a young girl with her hair in a messy bun- just like mine- grubbing in a tidal pool. She was digging out sand and yelling to her mother about the crabs she had found. She is slight of build with a blue top and shorts, speaking in a London accent. Watching her, I wondered about who her ancestors might be, and how, from early humans until now, we’ve dug clay for pots, and scoured the sand and rocks for shellfish or crabs. Her ancestors would surely recognise the instinct, joy and curiosity - or need - that drives her to dig.
I thought of the people who once made a living by sifting through the rubbish here, and those who comb beaches today, seeking out the stories thrown up by erosion and the tides. So little had changed. Would this little girl know about it? Would she ever learn? I only recently discovered this history myself, and I’m far from an expert. Does she realise she is carrying on an ancient tradition?

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