lap after lap
at the YMCA, an old man
stroking time

face down
in the shallow end
the drowning
of these dreams

water bugs!
the stream alive
with kids!*

moss-slicked rocks
she grips
her mother’s hand

night fishing
reeling
in weed

catch and release
a hook pricks
my conscience

camp out …
the lake plays host
to starlight

back to school
the outdoor pool
full of leaves

*after Issa