Your back to the raging river.
Bare feet in the high bank mud.
Your only cover a towel.
The river roars and grinds.
The white caped monster tears at the bank.
And it is slowly breaking away.
I shout of your danger, but I have no voice.
I try to wave, but my arms are lead.
I move to help you, but my feet are mud glued.
I can do nothing save watch
with terror as the water calls for you.
Oh! Please look before it is too late.
If only my eyes were sightless too.
You never look at the danger even as the bank collapses.
You are gone.
All for us is lost.
I wake with a start.
Another nightmare.
Your back to me you weep.
You lie so alone,
sleepless from dreaded thoughts.
Can I join your struggle?
Can I comfort you?
Don't be alone when you hurt?
When does my caring become guilt?
Did I cause this pain?
What can I say or do?
The bank is again eaten by the roaring waters.
Let's go to dangerous bank hand in hand.
If you are lost, I will be with you.
2nd draft 6-14-93