Another ocean metaphor.

I do so good, you know?

It’s been a while
since the last big wave came along.
No need to look over my shoulder
every time I feel a cool breeze
just to make sure
the winds haven’t changed.

Sometimes
it’s so good
I almost think I can see the shore.
(I can’t, of course, but I am a master at fooling myself.)

It’s not as bad out here
as I thought.
I’m getting used to treading water.
I don’t even mind the burn in my lungs
anymore.

It’s not the same.
(It never will be.)
But there are mermaids and manatees to talk to.
And when they’re off
doing their own thing
the silence isn’t as deafening
as it used to be.
I rather like the sound
of the ocean moving around me.
Past me.

I never thought I would.

But then you come along.
Sneak up on me
silent as a shark.
It’s a quick struggle.

I find myself being dragged under again.