Swimming

Somedays we feel like we're drowning

I'm in deep water, swimming towards the shore
The waves push me forward, only to pull me further away
I keep my head above water, looking forward as I feel my eyes burn
I kick and I fight to stay afloat trying to prevail
The shore is not far, yet I am unsure

I'm trying desperately to breath
My muscles burning
And I see the end is near

I think of all of those
Who depend on me
All my mistakes and unfulfilled pledges
All my desires and all my rages
I must repel the woes
I must have faith in me
Despite my imperfections
Pure are my intentions
I must continue for those
Who somehow count on me

The sea drowns my hopes
My tears become salted as my surroundings
And there's no one around to throw me a rope
I just cling to my beliefs and feelings
While trying to ride the surf

I'm trying desperately to float
I'm coughing water
And I don't see a boat

I think of all I've done
All the things left incomplete
All the moments I remember
All the places I have wondered
I must not be outdone
There are things still to achieve
Despite all my fumbles
I remain true and humble
I must reach that shore
For those who in me belief

Reviews

[Cory Barrett]

In the words of a blue cartoon fish... Just keep swimming.

Swimming in open water really is a great metaphor/allegory for life. I used to swim open water in the great lakes. When you are 400 yards of shore, it is frightening, and liberating all at the same time. I remember watching the sun come up over the lake horizon. I could see it every time i breathed to my right, still one of the most beautiful nature scenes i have ever witnessed. Inspiring piece you have here. Just keep swimming.

[Al R. Arce]

Thank you so much for your review! I was never a great swimmer! Odd for someone born and raised in an island!

[TL Boehm]

Well penned. SOmetimes we are all caught up in that riptide

[Al R. Arce]

It's been a while since last I read from you! Thank you for reading!

[Frieda P]

Sheer desperation in these words, feeling of hopelessness, yet never giving up...it was hard to breathe reading it. Occasionally, we have to just float freely on the surface to get our moxy back. Well done Al.