there comes a time
when you must go blind
into the dark
there is light
but it’s behind you
the only knowledge is forward
step after step
friends can take you only so far
to the edge of your own understanding
then it’s the launch
and the throb of waves
seemingly unceasing
carrying you away
yes, grieve
how could you not?
fill the oceans
and then some
cry without haste
or shame
fully, humanly
so that when the red horizon begins to slice open
the crown of a new day
you are empty
open
unabashed
grateful
stepping lightly
onto cool sand
leaving no trace.