Back To the Beach
I lay my back upon the sand and gently press into the shoreline
My lids shut, shielding me from the setting sun, open other senses to the brush of waves at my spine,
My ears, my toes; wherever the water goes -
I have no control
The toll of the tides, always a surprise to my awaiting, sea-salted skin
as it's caressed I do my very best to listen -
for the tide's rhythms
But I only hear hushes and childhood screams
and crowds cheering during Fourth of July displays
As the sea brims, I let it roll me down into my very own memory bay
Where I watch sun-kissed, decade-old daydreams, playing out just as I remember
Framed by sandy, size 4 footprints, which etched every seaside endeavor
I flutter my eyes open to lace-trimmed edges of waves
nipping the nape of my neck, surrounding my waist, falling at my hips
fitting me in a, white with foam, ocean-tailored dress
The child in me revives, giddy for beach-side weddings
Seagulls gawk on by, sending me their blessings
And I - 8-year-old me - marry the sea
Thanks to she, my tears ever be extra salty
My smiles always reminiscent of the missing-toothed-grins
My wave-tossed upbringings, and shore-sealed lessons
That always lead me back to the beach again
Copyright © Suz Fyodorov | Year Posted 2020
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