Join Me

I am nowhere near an ocean,

but I can imagine it so clearly:

the waves gently crashing

against the shore;

the sand nestled between each toe,

warming, easing

the aches I’ve accumulated

from daily stress and woe;

and the sound,

oh God yes,

the call of seagulls as they glide

effortlessly through the air.

I am far away from this,

I know,

but in my heart I am there,

with the sand, waves, and birds;

and for once,

the anxiety that so often

holds my body and mind hostage

cannot reach me,

cannot bind and torment me

while I am in the midst

of this momentary illusion.

*Published by the Tipp City Area Arts Council on 6/15/20