The Sea

So big I cannot understand.
What keeps it there? Am I safe?
It’s lapping at my feet, like a dog.
But when it makes a hill that moves
I’m frightened it’s coming
from a distant roar,
until, up close, a gentle hiss as it retreats.
A promise?

One it’s never failed to keep.
I stare now at infinite greys or blues,
depending on mood,
and something always connects,
more than I can ken.
Its immensity empties me and makes me understand,
nothing in particular,
everything I need.

(AH 19 June 2010 & 16 January 2011)