Childhood Voices

I venture to the shoreline to survey the solemn sea
And scan the years for childlike tears that speak volumes to me
Of loving hearts whose healing arts the tide of time would dull--
Was that a young child crying or the moaning of a gull?

Now hesitantly stepping barefoot over moist, cool sand,
The sea foam lapping at my feet, still listening, I stand.
The ebb and flow of long ago reflect youth's joyous power--
Was that the ring of laughter or a sea craft's tolling hour?

I yield with sweet abandon to the ocean's widespread arms,
As surges of refreshment flow like youth's forgotten charms.
Soon memory surrenders her intensely guarded turf,
And lifts a youngster's shout above the blissful, breaking surf!