Footsteps The shoreline approaches
Sun glinting off the cobalt sea
Fringed by yellowed sands,
The tide ripping at the boat.
The heat of summer Suddenly lost to the cold sting of water And the salt tang on parched lips as
One by one the waves welcome them.
Arms flailing and vigorous kicks, Terror forming on every face Buffeted and tossed by uncaring waves Scrambling to touch the salvation strand
Terra firma within grasp Until at last the first footstep of freedom On a beach that has welcomed Thousands to it sands
Dry land at last but soaked in tears.
Safety and uncertainty
And waves of relief
For they will leave footsteps.
When so many did not.
