Life Without

The island is warm.

Sand, everywhere.

"One thing," they said.

"You can bring just one."

In my arms, my one thing

A book, something

To distract me from

Silence

Loneliness

Fear.

Years later, I regret that.

I chose a book.

I chose a friend.

I chose escape.

With the words dancing,

I traveled far away,

Back home,

To England,

To fantasy lands,

To freedom,

To space,

To anywhere.

What could be better

When you have nothing else?

But now, I wish

I had decided

To do the smart thing.

Why did I not

Bring a boat?