Aryaman

I dipped my toe
The water cold
Was uninviting
But exciting.

Who are you?
I asked the future.
And the ocean stood 
Calm and quiet in its might.

The sun’s reflections on the surface, 
Alluring universe of sparks and colors
I’d never seen before. 

I set my foot
And felt a wave
Embrace my ankles
Break the shackles. 

Will you consume me?
I asked the ocean.
A vision of my future flourished
Dignified in its potential. 

I took a step and then another
Goosebumps showed upon my arms
I kept on walking but I stopped
When the water kissed me there. 

You are warm now,
I told the ocean.
And let my fingers touch him
As he held my hand and led me forward. 

Come, the ocean said, 
Calm, my body felt. 
What will happen next?
A mermaid wouldn’t ask such vulgar questions.