I am seduced by seashells

I walk along a beach spread with seashells

Long streaks parallel to the surf line

The display surprises me

There are punctuations in depressions holding large masses of shells like trays of jewels

I know Olive, Angel Wing, Baby’s Ear, Periwinkle, Bear’s Claw, Boat Shell and Scotch Bonnet

When the shells are unbroken, they are smooth, crinkled, fluted, spiraled and shapes for which I know no words

Their colors vary widely

Some are shades of brown, others deep purple

Some are pearl white and some shimmer with iridescence

Each one I hold possesses its own beauty

Each is unique and finds its place for me to view

After the fallen tide