Gulls skim the tide, gliding, almost laughing
Lacey-footed sandpipers dig their evening harvest.
Bounding, bouncing dogs of many colors
Create a crazy cacophony of joyful canine noises
And bundled beach walkers strain against the autumn wind.
Some arrive with sweet wine, wagering the moment.
Some march arms entwined, for love, for warmth.
All, gathering sand in their shoes, seek peace in their hearts.
They come drawn by one mind, a universal summons --
The glorious sinking orb wants watching.
Mindless of the chill, barefoot, sandy children race the setting sun,
Squeezing precious minutes from the fading day.
Footprints are pressed, names lightly fingered in the damp grains.
A gull cries, a child squeals, a dog barks
Offering innocent bargains to the sun.
And the sea pounds its presence into the sand.
Fire-bright clouds glow, surrounding the source,
Infusing the sky with irresistible riches.
Eyes intent, burning, are shielded in farewell salutes.
Tumbling iridescent waters, relentless
Until at last, it drops.
Day again gives way to night.
Silent then, seeking refuge from the dark,
They trudge through ebony scattered pebbles
Retracing opalescent trails with steps heavy against the dunes.
As one they came, now so they depart.
In common reverie, soundless prayers released
Souls awakened, homeward bound.
PBF © 1998