Swimming

Times gone past
images still remain
so many we have lost
and so many gained.

Nothing is forever
though it seems some are
All will burn to the ground
like a summertime flower.

People we meet
and memories we share
washed away by time
like the crisp mountain air.

What things we hoped for
where today we stand
still chasing that light
till life comes to an end.

I am weak
I cannot bear a mild chill
the comforts of life
have weakened my will.
I have to swim today
because I have dared to dive
I have to swim today
to stay alive
I will swim today
not sink and die
I will swim today
under warm, beautiful skies.

-Mike T., Lost to Eternity, March 2004.