I.
We are
Divergent tides
who met at the delta
coalesced in a delirious dervish dance
uncertain where to go but
round and round
until a break inspires
its eventual journey
onto the endless sea

II.
There is time
- years it take for
the rapids to
smoothen the rocks
that bravely greet it
‘Tis god’s way of
letting nature
sculpt the bones
of the earth
refining its shape
perfecting its form

III.
With some luck
secrets will hold out
with the ease and panache
of a crustacean expertly teetering
along mangrove roots
one deadly habitat, they say
But No, says this shrewd side-winding creature
there is no feat too bold
no crevice too threatening
so long as you
mind your own walk
albeit
sideways or straight

Heroism therefore, is resistance.

Rest in Peace, Alexis Tioseco.  You’ve fought the good fight and I truly admire your work.