Marrowstone Island
By Sharon Carter, MD

Sunset spills crimson waves
across the sand, unveiling
a crescent of tidal pools.

Our hands touch briefly--
years of understanding flow between us.
My heart beats with yours;

the tide pulses
against the ventricle of the shore;
sun's smooth pendulum measures time.

I match the rhythm
of your stride, one arm curving
around your back.

Blue herons skim across the bay
--the island already asleep,
dreaming back the tide.

Your voice,
like warm red wine,
your smile cradles a kiss.