Betsy Robin Schwartz

-for andrew gettler

You know how it is-

walking into the sea

over crushed shells

that press into your soles

with waves crashing,

shaking, and

shackling your ankles

then breaking at your knees

pressing them to buckle,

turn, and

bend.

And just past that point,

the water welcomes you

to its familial oscillating womb

keeping you safe, refreshed

for as long as you can

tread water or float on your back.

And if your energy flags

a friend, winged Gabrielle

perched on the shore

saves you from drowning

before she's heard your prayers.