(Mondello) (Sicilia 48)

I liked best the sea.
it found a lonely man waiting for comfort
and daily provided just that.
every glimpse felt new.
every moment felt like home.

I liked best the gelato.
it found a hunger for sweetness that is insatiable
and wished with all its might to cure.
every taste tingled soothing.
every bite led to more.

I liked best the waves crashing.
they found a listener perched high above silence
and open to their calls.
every thudder paused time.
every oscillation a new moment of peace.

I liked best the Lipari bed.
it found shoulders to massage and heal.
a neck needing support and feet to fall asleep.
every angle one of comfort.
every posture one supported.

I liked best the church.
the aroma transfixed me and baptised my nose,
one that felt like it had never been used prior.
every molecule filled with calamity.
every breath one of purity.

I liked best the relaxation.
the knowledge that I am not lost,
a world that still wants my presence.
every day a new discovery.
every second spent in deep gratitude.

I liked all things, even those at first I didn’t.
the enjoyment of difference and challenge,
the intense ability to affect my core.
every opportunity I felt love.
every moment forward I will reflect fondly.