Under the Clouds, Beside the Sea

My carefree youth of summer, accentuated by long days.

Sun’s heat and rays invite, thunder and lightning to strike.

Clouds torn asunder, rumbles and flashes ignite,

We run through instant puddles, as the storm interrupts our play.

Cherished seaside picnics, upon warm sands, under palms.

Beads of sweat form on my brow, my lips, under my arms,

My tongue tastes that salty mixture of sea and sweat combined,

A taste more satisfying than peaches that have grown on the vine.

Blue sky above my head, clouds shapeshifting withing sight.

The images a see in the light of day, continue through my mind at night.

Each day is filled with promise, brightness, warmth, and glow.

The waves roll back out to sea, leaving me treasure to grasp and show.

Although I am much older now, living far from the shore.

With memories of my summers then, I want for nothing more.