“The Path We Take” by David Radford


The path we are on runs above the surf
narrow and flanked by cliff and rolling turf
Silky strands swaying in a verdant land
reached out to caress the extended hand

Every now and then it would cross a ledge
There some risk as it flirted with the edge
With firm resolve and movement very slow
passed was the danger from the waves below

Deep unrest surfaced in the sun kissed sea
Wind and waves warned of a strong storm to be
Silky strands swaying in a verdant land
reached out and now struck the extended hand

Swirling clouds formed a chilling barrier
blocking calming rays for roiling water
Waves were dispatched with more force than before
to brutally pound a weakening shore

No longer does the path flirt with edges
Now the path crosses their collapsed ledges
Boulders by the sea obstructing the way
and crossing them risks being swept away


David Radford is a retired college professor who loves gardening and the great outdoors. Creative writing has been a welcome change from the technical writing his career demanded.