A storm cleared the air, finally
scrubbed the sky clean
and for one day it was perfection
the magical lake fresh with a crisp and stunning beauty I know so well.

The still evening called me, alone
down to the dock in just a towel
and I slipped down the ladder in the dark
the cool water sliding over my skin as I swam out to my usual spot.

Just me on the lake
just me watching the last light fade.

One more night, one final dip
less perfect but this time with stars
everything quiet, smooth, peaceful
the water lapping at the edges of my body
blurring sound as I gazed up at the big, dark sky.

Just me on the lake
just me watching the light fade
just me to bid the bittersweet farewell.

-RDP