I cry at the shatter,
my make-believe worlds
strewn about, chains of colorful 
toys on the ground

I crawl in anguish
for arms to raise me up
to hold me high overhead,
my back to the sky, the warm sun
secure in the loving nestle 
between cheek and shoulder

lost without words,
buoyed on this ocean,
your face with every bob
above waves

you are beautiful
beaded in water
and the world is
wonderful for I am
of you

(thank you for 
not letting me drown)

cc: Chagall 2021