what is it about the ocean
that fills my lungs
and has my back
and soothes my eyes
and cushions my feet,
and lifts my chin
and eases my mind
and hums in my ear
and cradles my heart
what is it about the ocean
that even when it’s rough
and grey and dull,
and the sky is low
and a wind blows cold
and an endless drizzle
coats my soul
what is it about the ocean
any ocean, beach or sea,
that always knows
it’s home for me
(Claudia Saja, 9 December 2020)