Whisper of afternoon


    Before time grows up and leaves the house,


    spare me a moment for companionable quiet,


    the warmth of your hand in mine


    the warmth of afternoon sunlight


    streaming through the window,


    warming the carpet,


    bathing the whole house in sweet slumber.


    All hands


    All hands on deck.


    If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    Never know when the tide may strike,


    but I’m off with you.


    Don’t wait for the fish to leap like frogs


    into the nets till they burst with plenty.


    The islands are calling,


    all two thousand,


    and no man’s an island—I need you.


    Shelve the boat and scuba dive


    into the coral mazes,


    sign to the fish,


    learning the art of patience


    from sea turtles.


    Take me adventuring,


    while the age is young and the time is long.