I know the sand beneath my toes
as I quickly rig the boat

I know the fishy smell
of the summer harbor

and seeing all the rich people
tanning on their bows

I know their large boats suspended
in the midst of all the action

I know the trail of churned up water
that we leave

as we sail out of the harbor
through the channel

I know the smell
of warm summer air

and the chirps of various birds
singing their songs

I know the sound of the bow
when it slices through the waves

as the cool salt water
slaps against my skin

I know the roar of the wind
whipping the sail

as we glide
through the waves

I know the little kids leaping off the dock
and splashing into the water

as last of all I know the sting of blisters
that form on my hands

as I grip the main sheet
with a tight force

I know the disappointment of derigging,
folding sails and waiting until tomorrow