holiday blues

my grown children
came and went
the house
was filled
with laughter
with activity

so many memories
to add to those
of the past

but each year
it seems
they become
more poignant
more precious

I do not let them know
I weep
when they leave

the house sighs
too

I am coming

I am coming,
I am coming to water's edge
at last we will meet
perhaps exchange thoughts

I will stay near
as near I as I can
I will listen
to the sounds
water makes
in the repeated fashion
I love

I never thought
this encounter
would occur
so near the place
where I saw the faces

in anguish and despair
calling out for
fresh water
despite the fact
so much salty water
was around
not soaking in the ground

but standing everywhere
taking the brunt
of human anger
for deeds
that should not
be blamed on
an element

that only goes where
it naturally should
if it could....