Standing at water’s edge I feel winter
gather strength, bow to gusting wind.
White capped waves rush to the shore where sand
castles are carried away on tempest tossed shore.

The plum shade draws across the sky,
as sun disappears under a peach washed
horizon. Salt spray sorts moments to focus
in solitude and gather thoughts on waves
where they are strung together like pearls.

No job, help or time to wait without work.
An unanswered question “Is it worth it all?”
slips from my lips. Rise up face to the wind,
breath blown on cupped hands for heat.

Arms encircle my waist from behind, slip her
hands snuggly into my coat pockets lacing
fingers over mine. Recognizing familiar
feminine warmth and soft touch,
“Love is worth it all”