Awakening - Poem by David C Probst

Tenderly, cautiously, I dip my thirsty toes,
Then the ball, the sole and heel of one foot.
My furry calf is next to plunge into the scented fluid —
My nostrils dilate under the warm spell
As I immerse my other leg
And let my senses float for a while —

Like a frail old man I crouch and finally sit down,
Catching my breath, bewildered by the bemusing haze.
That is what it must have felt like in my mother's womb
Ere I was dismissed into this chilly and callous world:
Lulled, cradled, cared for
In a cozy, lush and warm pool —

As I sit and let my weary eyes sweep the walls,
My gaze reaches the ceiling and I let myself slide
Backwards until the waters engulf my chin.
Dazed by moist fragrances I sink deeper still,
Shutting off the world around me for a moment:
No sound, no smell — just peace and quiet —

If only I had gills to stay down here much longer
And drift among these tranquil tides!
I dread my return, but can no longer hold my breath —
I pierce the elusive liquid and emerge, headfirst.
My lungs yearn for air, I gasp —
I'm back again, alive, revived!

Panting I rise and step out of the tub.
I reach for the towel and rub myself dry.
In the steamy mirror I spot the reflection
Of a middle-aged man with greying hair
And a mellow body shape —
Yet eyes as vigorous and alert as a boy's.