I would test the line
With a toe.
Were the rocks really as sharp as I remembered?
Would they bite as deep as last time?
A deep breath, a dive.
Move fast,
Perhaps it won’t hurt as much this time.

Then,
The coolness of grass.
A softness, refreshing, soothing bruised skin.
Until I was called to cross again.

©2022 Mary Grace van der Kroef