The sky was full of stars, their brilliance, the light of yesterdays –

sent on their way, millions of years ago to touch youthful minds.

The beach glowed, still warm under foot.

The moon in purdah on this Arabian night.

A small adventure, a first of its kind for the young woman,

recently married and far away from her English home.

A treat kept as a joyful surprise for her, now to be fulfilled.

He hoped that the spirit of all young lovers would smile on them.

He dived first, into the warm sea, leaving her to watch the magic.

As he surfaced she shouted in joy to witness the fire of his path.

Then running, she too dived, to become surrounded in green flames

the phosphorescent light that painted the dark waters.

 

This beautiful happening, a memory that surfaces unheeded,

to fill a mind with happiness and warm thoughts.

 

 

David Garlick, Sidney, September, 2007