shallow lake
shoreline
laps supple waves around
scrawny ankles
deep enough to drown.

warm summer sky
shines
carries gentle whispering breeze
strong enough to lift and float
my heart up to the sun.

bird songs call
as bird wings flit
and bird feet hop
and dance from maple
to oak bough
guardian trees of the lake’s calm serene
tall enough to taste the clouds.

barefoot running
down worn dirt path
to the water’s rippling edge
away from voices screaming
fists pounding, bruising
desperate enough to leave behind
and plunge into blue shimmering lake.

brave enough to sink to find my wings
and soar up to my home.