If you were here, together,
we would comb the beach with our eyes
that look different
but tell the same story.

If your hands, alongside mine
picked up the stones and shells
and for once didn’t mind the sand 
under our fingernails
we would share newly found treasures
and marvel at the beauty
that went from in front of our feet to our attention.

If your eyes spotted a great blue heron
jokingly, you would point with your finger 
right in front of my face.
Your laughter would add a tremendous layer
to the chorus of the waves.

Now with you on the other side of the sea
the heron finds me without you pointing.
I feel connected to you
and am reminded of the spark in your eyes 
upon sharing what’s most precious.