When I step out of the lake I will
Be confident and calm.
The water will have washed away
The “what if?” and “I can’t remember”.
I will be strong and upright.
No aching back or tired legs.
But – stepping out of the lake
Requires balance and agility.
How will I know I have
The strength to stand
And wade through the shallows?
What if I should slip?
But what if I'm meant
To be sunk at the bottom
Of the lake – trapped in weed.
Eaten by fish and frogs.
Maybe I will leave the lake
Just now. Take photographs
To remind me that it awaits
My salvation another day.
Today I will think about
Being strong and brave.
Tomorrow I shall return.
Unless it's raining.