Naturalism

I have to be careful, when I walk down along the shore
with my heart awake:
Because even on the coldest of days, sometimes
the sea's resounding laughter
ignites my spirit, and I find myself
throwing my clothes in a heap on the sand—
and the next thing I know,
I feel my firm cheeks bouncing
as I sprint into the water
and dive under the breaking waves!

Translucent, siren green embraces my bare skin
(chilling me to so deeply that my breath
comes short and gasping)
and I am as naked, wet, and pleased
as the day I was born.

As these things do happen,
I try to remember to bring a towel.

Although a towel isn't much use, if it's raining.
But I don't hold back. The dancing glow of my
own soul whispers seductively:
Sometimes, you just have to dare yourself
to live.