The Ocean

The swell of the wave and the presence of fear are both palpable. As I watch it approach, I hear my heart deep inside my head. I feel my pulse quicken. I can run or I can face the wave. It is like life, some big encounters, some small… but all obstacles. A flash of heat washes over me as my palms cool with the sweat. The sun stings my face yet I find comfort in the pain. For the cold hard winter is over. I welcome the warmth. My toes feel the cool sand tug and pull away from the bottoms of my feet. I can hear the ocean call to me. Come, Come feel my rhythm. As The sound of the gulls, warning me to respect the water and all its secrets deafens my ears. My lips are kissed by the salty spray of her arms. Mother Ocean tries to entice me. Yet I am afraid. For I know her secrets, and I know my strength, now as I face her she is formidable and I am weak. I dig into the cool moist sand with my toes and try my best to stand tall but with one swift wave I am pulled under. I feel something slither between my legs; I try my best not to panic. Is it an eel, or is it seaweed? I can see nothing now. I am embraced by the ocean. Yet I do not feel comfort nor love. I feel alone and lost. I struggle to keep the water out of my lungs and my mouth is rendered useless. My nose burns as the liquid passes in and out, up and down. I am finally overcome, and I am tired of fighting. I welcome my death and pray it is swift. I begin thinking of my family and suddenly, with one fluid motion I am coughed back onto the land. I am alive but disorientated, I wonder if this is heaven or hell.  For I am free to live another day.  And to fear, love and respect the ocean. I am forever drawn to her the siren I cannot ignore.  Walking the razors edge; between life and death, heaven and hell.  Lulled into a false sense of security by her beauty.  Under the sun; above the sand, and beside the wind, I live. I live.