A Sense of Belonging

the chipped wood is smooth against my bare feet.
the black metal gate creaks melodies,
while the ducks join in harmony.
i stand facing the old elms and pines
giving off the autumn glow
as the sun sets behind me.
i grip the stair rail as i watch the water;
a relaxed, rippling, invitation in blue.
the reflection of the sun on the surface
is like a thousand camera flashes all at once.
blinding but craving.
stepping down, i inch towards the pool side.
the smell of chlorine makes the invite so much more tempting.
the ducks have resumed their qualms and elegance
above and below the surface.
the flowers and the old bumblebee tree
neatly line the left side of the waters.
closing my eyes, i dip my toes.
relief washing over me like a high tide.
the scent of burning charcoal overpowering my senses.
i am snapped back into realization.
i am home.