Speedboat

Speedboat
by Gabe Redel


I see as I paddle
that many are speedboats
skipping across the water
like stones over a pond.

The majesty of the boat
against the wake that spills
from the curves of its hull
cannot be replicated from anything
other than what is made for power.

And if you put on
your white boat shoes
and cast off with the captain
surely you will have an exciting ride.

The wind pushing into your cheeks
and flowing across your brow;
the bouncing under your feet
and the opposition of the turns
will have you believing
that everything is perfect in that moment.

Many are speedboats
and they do not change.
It is inspiring
to be a speedboat,
but what happened to the rest
of the journey?

Where is the land
that talks casually about who you are?
What about the cool breeze of the patio
that holds thoughts of what you believe?

Where is the sand
that warms your body
with the truth about your home?

How do you not slow down
to understand
something that is as desirable
and interesting as you?