I saw them struggling against the riptide,
And called out to check their vitality.
They choked on water, begged for aid,
Wanting me to bring them ashore.
But the currents and gail winds frightened me.

I saw them struggling against the riptide,
And swam out, though unprepared.
Sucked down and out under harsh waves
No light, no air, just darkness and cold.
Desperately trying to break the surface.

I saw them struggling agaisnt the riptide,
I fought and kicked against the brine.
My head found air above the chop.
But after seeing what still lay between us
I abandoned my advances and turned back.

I saw them struggling agaisnt the riptide
They sobbed and cajoled, demanded and coerced
"I'll drown without you! I need your strength!"
Pangs of guilt washed over me.
I sought after a preserver along the beach.

I saw them struggling against the riptide
And threw them an air raft, landing just out of reach.
"Take it! Use it!" I pleaded frantically.
They spotted it, but shook their head
"I need you to carry me!"

I saw them struggling agaisnt the riptide,
And felt my heart break as they continued to flail
Unwilling to accept the tool I had offered.
I could swim, but not in this.
I'm just me. I'm no lifeguard.
© melluvssunsetswrites