Sea change

I have played on the magnificent shore
too long.
With my child's feet, small
against the waves
lightly imprinted on the sandy beach.
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Growing heavier
with each sunset,
each sunrise,
burning and soothing in equal measure.

Some days captivated entirely,
unmoving
unafraid
wishful
and alone.

Some nights intoxicated by the stars,
invisible in the night,
silent witness to the gentle, lapping water
annihilated by the raging storms.
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Today,
at this water's edge
I stand.
With adult feet,
sunk deep into the rough earthiness,
calves splashed by the wetness of the sea,
with each step I take,
I touch,
and they touch me.