Poetry
The Benefits of Treading Water
When you’re in the middle of the ocean with no land in sight,
try not to panic, and avoid the immediate urge to swim for shore.
Treading water while not fighting the current is best,
until there is some sight of green land on the horizon.
Even then you won’t know if the land you glimpse is a safe harbor
or a dangerous pile of rocks. Or worse, a rip tide that will carry you back into the open ocean miles from any discernable landmarks.
Conserve your energy and wait patiently for the swells to grow larger.
Wait for them to lift you high enough to gain a better perspective.
Believe that your chance will come. In the absence of giant fireballs returning from the dawn of time, the nature of life is to survive.
Wait for that clear and sunny day when the mists will lift and part
to reveal your way forward, however far away it appears.
Keep your eye out for signs of life, and stroke by stroke, you’ll get there.
