every night

about this time

i tune in and tread

the stellar channel

waiting…

            for tsunami

waxing…

            in the dark

paddling past

the great barrier reef

anchored…

to a madman’s leash

fearing…

what i feel and see…

the wall!

not to panic

not to freeze

not to blink my mind

as tsunami’s shadow

swallows me,

i struggle to align

                        slashing…

            coughing

cursing

control

            control

                        control…

                        gasping…

            crying

snarling

control…control…control

i snag the curl

slide thru the tube

chute straight and skyward

to the top

smelt…

            into a wave of light

and soar…

            among the gods

Gulf of Vera ‘89