For You I Swim
A poem by Bradley Samore

For You I Swim
for Uncle Rich (1952–2008)

Staring into the river
I think of you
how you would jump right in
and I am ashamed of my fear

I remove my clothes and step
onto the shallow stones
then into the cold current
the sting of ten thousand needles

I slow my breathing
each step deeper each breath
deeper until I am swimming
here where I was scared to go

and I realize you are here
teaching me courage and
the joy of swimming in the wild
the water flowing with your presence

About the Author:

Bradley Samore has worked as an editor, writing consultant, English teacher, creative writing teacher, basketball coach, and family support facilitator. His writing has appeared in The Florida Review, Carve, The Dewdrop, and other publications. He was named a Joint Winner of the Creative Writing Ink Poetry Prize. www.BradleySamore.com

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