The Hither Shore

So cried the golden sands in taunt
To ocean deep and strong –
“You think yourself all-powerful!
In that I’ll prove you wrong.”

To mighty height rose ocean
In annoyance, and replied
Dismissively, “I’ll ruin thee!
So witless grows your pride.”

And with a howl of potent rage
Sea crashed into the land,
And long they warred while earthbound poured
Rain-torrents ‘pon the sand.

Then thunder clashed, and lightning flashed,
And sun came out again,
The waves withdrew, land raged anew,
For neither could be slain.

And still they fight, though any hate
Has long since worn away;
For ocean rises and recedes,
And Fate leads not astray.

And though the waves may pound and writhe
Upon the hither shore,
So fair and yet so steadfast
It will stand forevermore.