I wander back to the shore.

An overwhelming ray touches my skin,

it’s intense but kind, like a stern parent.

Warm sand prickles my toes,

I happily sink into their acceptance.

No one missed me like they did.

 

I miss the sound of the shore,

I miss hearing the water call out to me,

between every crash I hear it shout my name,

it begs that I join.

 

I swear the sweltering heat heals.

My ripe wounds close with its force.

I bathe away new bruises into familiar waves,

I sink down under the waves and hold my breathe -

I have to practice for winter.

I feel stinging in my eyes that 

I love the way I love being tattooed - 

a purposeful pain that reminds me I am here right now.

 

My beach welcomes me back,

I run into her diluted embrace.

No one missed me like the beach did.