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2006 11 03

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Converted from paper version of the Broad Ripple Gazette (v03n22)

Poetic Thoughts - Poem by Richard B. Jones - by C.W. Pruitt II

posted: Nov. 03, 2006

Sentimental feelings make for great poetry. Here is a poem which waxes (and wanes) sentimental by Richard B. Jones:

Sea Climbs Sandy Shore

Back and Fourth Waves Come and Go

Evening Brings Cool Wind

The waves were high again today

Since August it has been that way

And at last the crowds have gone away

leaving litter where they've been

They marveled at the things I've done

Up and down the beach in the mid-day sun

From a tall white tower with a seat for one

In a nervous moment now and then

But alone I sit at the lifeguard stand

My shades and a whistle still in hand

...And the tide is inching up the sand

Here at the Summer's end

Back East the leaves have turned, I hear

The holidays are drawing near

With loved ones by your fireside

It's a sentimental time of year

Soon I'll stow my gear in the lifeguard shed

Wipe the salt and sand from my shoulders red

While home, a thousand miles away

My schoolmates put their kids to bed

It's a glorious thing to live, "on the ledge"

Face the world with no protective hedge

Till a lonely ship's bell lets you know

That you've stayed too long at the water's edge

The sky is pink and purple now

I should take my leave with a graceful bow

Reinvent my fate, if I just knew how

Hitch my soul at a wayside inn

I've seen some things you won't believe

Earned patches up and down my sleeve

Made memories too dear to leave

Waved good-bye to a hundred friends

A warm cool-breeze is in the air

It gently blows my thinning hair

...I remember when the days were fair

Here at the Summer's end

cw@broadripplegazette.com

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