How I long to walk to the water’s edge,
to dip my toes and cool my burning feet.
There are times I think if I could just reach the water
all my pain would wash away.
Where are the days when I skipped along the shore
collecting shells and rocks and starfish?
My body would bake in the brilliant sun as I danced
like a gazelle from one end of the beach to the other. I’d look back
in amazement wondering how I walked that far.
Sometimes I would catch my reflection in the water
and see that young woman, vibrant and alive.
Hair of burnished gold, skin smooth and lustrous,
deeply tanned, and eyes as green as the ocean itself.
I smile at her but she does not smile back. Perhaps
she knows the hurt that lies ahead and is already grieving.
I desperately want to be free from these chains of pain
but the key has long been buried in the sand. I reach for it
but it eludes me.
Where is that young, desirable woman? Where did she go?
If you see her walking by the water’s edge,
please send her home.
I have much to tell her. My heart is strong and my lust for life
and love has not diminished. Only my muscles fail me.
How I long to walk to the water’s edge,
but my tired and failing limbs will not support me.
Oh, how they mock me!
Will someone carry me to the water’s edge?
How I long to walk there once again.
NAR © 2022
The Elephant's Trunk 
This is a therapeutic piece masterfully written…very touching and transparent…
On A sidenote: you are a greater writer and now I see you write poetry too…Outstanding!
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You flatter me! I dabble in poetry; it is not my wheelhouse but sometimes the spirit moves me. When we love to write, it doesn’t matter the format. We just sit and if we’re lucky, it flows. I look forward to reading more of your work. Thank you for your very gracious words. 💕
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Sincerely you are welcome. and it is beautiful when we just let the words flow… have a wonderful weekend!
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so beautifully written Nancy. I love the imagery and word choice you used! 💖💖💖👏👏😘
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Oh, thank you, luv! It wasn’t difficult to write; those pains are all too real and sometimes I just need to talk about them. Truly moved my your lovely words, Cindy Girl! 💕 ☺️ 🌹 🥰
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oh yes, i know the feeling and good you do Nancy. oh good.. It’s always a delight and this is no exception💖💖💖
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What an introspective piece.. it makes one think about life and how our days just seem to pass and so does our time..
Beautifully written!
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Oh my, what a piece! I’m touched. Old age just happens and cuts us from many things, but its a beauty on its own too. 🌺💝
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What a lovely sentiment! Each tier of life has it’s own beauty; it’s the pain that brings out the sorrow and the ugliness in all of us. Some are strong enough to smile through it all. God bless them! It’s not easy. Thank you, my friend, for your beautiful thoughts. 💕 ✨
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It’s true, dear Nancy. The pain can sometimes take the place of joy and make life feel miserable. Oh, I’m touched. Feel most welcome, dear 💝
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So full of emotion! 💕
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That kind of day 😌
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