I see the waves Washing debris on the shore Silly sea jellies float aimlessly with the current. I dive in Surfacing to see fluffy foam and gray sky And teensy muscles, and silky seaweed— I am fascinated by what the wave Leaves behind. Suddenly, another wave breaks above my head When the water calms, There are new Treasures, Which I grasp So Tightly in my palms I will not let go, I think But they are swept away With a simple Tug from the current I am weeping salty tears, Which mix with the briny water There she goes again It’s Selene, she who yanks My Shells away from me I am screaming No shells will ever be the same! I won’t have that shark tooth Or that stubby crab With the barnacle on its back Or the soft sand in my hand Or the little periwinkle And its cylindrical armor Just as I am about to depart—- Because I am distraught— I hear a whoosh And the wave Slams down Upon my back I fall down, Then get up And laugh because I see a cream-colored Conch With a shiny pink interior It’s unlike one I’ve ever seen Fin