Disappearing for Awhile

We step out onto the pier together,

Into the dead of night.

Just you and I.

I will show you the ropes.

Or so I thought!

This is how to remain undetected,

Into the black abyss.

I tell you this:

“Transparency is the ultimate goal.”

I quietly reflect on just how this is possible.

I whisper ever so faintly for you to get ready.

I nod that it is indeed time.

Leading by example,

I embody a gator.

They move so stealthily in the water…

So, will I.

I motion for you to climb into the water first.

I silently center myself.

I reflect…

This physical form I possess–

Obvious on land,

Would only give me away!

Transparency is the ultimate goal,

I murmur.

I look over at you…

You,

Placing hand under hand,

Climbing down the ladder.

Off of this rickety pier.

You move like a pro!

Transparency is the ultimate goal.

My black one-piece swimsuit,

Making only my limbs and head visible.

I pull my hair back into a severe bun.

The curls concealed,

Into the slick hairstyle I created.

Nearly invisible from the front.

I think to myself,

I’m so thin that I may fade away…

Another five pounds,

And the dark night will envelop me.

Swallowing me whole.

But remember…

Transparency is the ultimate goal.

Now more than ever,

I slip into my thoughts…

They carry me far away from this pier.

I make an oath:

I must slip into the murky lake as well…

I need refuge.

A place to be quiet for a while.

I finally climbed down the ladder.

I discreetly creep into the water,

As little splashing as possible.

The inky black night swallowing me,

I swim as silently as I can,

Only revealing the tip of my nose.

I imagine that I swim like a gator,

Waiting for its prey.

Transparency is achievable…

If only I wait.

Floating just under the surface,

Tiny bubbles only giving me away.

Translucent in the water,

I mirror my surroundings.

Cloaked in darkness,

I succumb to the environment.

Sinking into the water even more,

I hold my breath for dear life.

I swim down to the bottom of the lake.

I no longer see you.

I no longer see anyone.