Freefalling
South Otago High School year 10
Watching the waves ride up against the tall rocks.
The rocks were like a wall, unmoving and stubborn.
Warm from the sun shining down on them endlessly.
The water was clear, reflecting the sun.
Unlike the rocks, the water was numbing,
Freezing to the touch.
It moved around freely, washing the rocks fresh.
The rocks were full. A crowd.
Endless blurred faces lined on the edge, waiting.
We waited.
And then someone jumped.
The water splashed up, moving around the person.
The waves rippled, recovering from the impact.
From beneath the water, a blurred face smiled.
They laughed and paddled back to the rock, climbing the
awkward rocks.
We waited.
Then I jumped.
Like a flightless bird trying to fly. Useless.
The numbing water could wake someone from death.
Yet, just like the one before me,
I pulled myself from the water.
Smiling.