Wavelets slither over a wet shore

warmed in the heat of day, the faint

popping of bursting effervescence

barely heard. Toes squidge in it, sinking

with the flow of successive swirls of tide.

 

Stepping forward releases a schlurp, leaves

puddled footprints that wash away

in moments, leaving no trace of my passing.

Water ripples round my ankles, tickling,

enticing me further into the lazy surf.

 

Knee-deep now, the sand is firm, wrinkled

underfoot. Warmth gives way to hints

of cold, raising goosebumps in response.

I stride further in, welcoming

the increasing chill of deeper water.

 

I stand for a moment in two minds,

struggling with the spell of the sea,

procrastinating over the moment,

fearful of its shock, but knowing

I am almost, almost ready for the plunge.