A child in blue sprints full tilt 
and barefoot along the sunburnt sand.

He and his short shadow are both chased 
by the same need to outrun the summer breeze.

With the last of his breath, he calls 
to the dog leaping in the shallows.

The sea-soaked hound ups its ears and runs to him, 
hurdling the waves, making for the shore.

Half-startled, he squeals as the dog twists, 
wringing the salt-water from its coat, 
drenching him in half-delight.

The boy’s high-pitched giggle draws all our smiles,
parents, strangers 
and poets alike.