Remembering Mama.... Poem by RIC BASTASA

you must know how is it to swim alone
with nothing to hold on except the waves and foams
seagulls above you and deep blue skies
the shore is faraway and you rely on no one
you retain that faith in your arms and legs

back to the essence of a body and mind and
above all that spirit
that does not know how to quit how to drown and
die.

mother had always reminded when she was still alive
' do not swim alone, it is too dangerous
the ripping current shall take you with all ease'

it can not be avoided, mother, he tells her on the grave
bringing salt and sighs, ' it is a fact, mother,

you did not swim alone, and yet, you ventured on your
own sea of sorrow, there were us. but it was always you.