Swaddling limbs around
her, I sprinted to the
shore. Terror consumed
every inch of my being—

We were back at the shore.
We were safe.
She was safe…

Within seconds it
all began again. The slithering
serpent intended
to take a victim with
him; a ten year old
on this menu. Without
thought I lept into the
water, tracking the villain on
his trek to victory. I thrusted water to
divert its attention
to me like
moths to the flame.
Determined to spawn sparks.

A correction in direction took place—
I became the target. My arms
were lightning striking the
water with increasing
speed. The shore felt miles away from my
frantic flails…

I was relieved.
The snake returned to his home.
I was safe.
Everyone was safe.

My mind wonders to that day in times of fear,
Reminding me:
No matter how treacherous the trail
I will not back down.