We watched the sailboats in the bay

floating aimlessly, helplessly

Beckoning to the call of the elements.

I watched the tide crashing on the rocky shore,

Listened to the sea birds sing,

Breathed in the sulfuric air,

But I couldn’t look at you.

The water erodes the rocks

The rocks don’t seem to mind.

The sea is a harsh mother

Yet the sailors set out daily

Relinquishing control,

Accepting love, enduring censure

Grant me that serenity