we all stand
by the water’s edge
feeling as the cold
slowly climbs
a gradual drowning
so many loved ones
have disappeared
beneath the waves
the emptiness
reflected in
the placid lapping

i close my eyes
lock your smile
into my mind
as the the water
tickles
the tip of my nose
uncaring of the ending
unwilling to surrender
that piece of you
lodged deep
in my heart