cold water

you embrace
the ocean on this winter day.
empty.
littered with shells
unfound.
each with a story,
each
with a whisper
a tale to tell.
the others who pass by
nod hello.
they too
are here seeking answers,
remembering
what has come
and gone.
no need to take off
your shoes
to walk in the water,
to see how cold.
you know.