Out of The Blue: A September 11th Anniversary Tribute
I wrote this poem in the weeks following the tragedy of September 11th. My heart wanted to wrap everyone in the healing waters here in The Bahamas—the starfish I saw was such a stark contrast to the horrific devastation, such a reminder of how amazing life can be when we’re not terrorizing one other. The poem originally appeared in Grand Bahama Island Magazine—a welcome digest my husband and I published for many years. I post it here with prayers and remembrance on this 10th anniversary of September 11th, and blessings of natural wonder and grace and hope.
Out of The Blue
The waters of The Bahamas
shine so clear and blue
reflecting a kind of peace
that is eternal and renewed
Catching sight of a simple starfish
resting of the sand beneath the waves
there’s wonder and a sense God put it there
as a natural tribute, just for you
For everyone who lost their lives
and those who labor still
to heal and defend
the freedoms we all hold very dear
Where do we go for comfort
to find the strength within
to fight the good fight without fear
to find the peace again?
We lift our eyes up heavenward
and then look here on earth
for reminders of a paradise unlost
where hope can be rebirthed
… and under the liquid surface
of waters that sparkle true blue
we gaze upon a simple starfish
and find the courage to love and live anew.
— Paula Boyd Farrington
Explore posts in the same categories: by the sea, Grand Bahama Island, indescribable, inspiration, love, poetry, Sunday Inspiration, The Bahamas, writingTags: 10th anniversary of September 11th, fight the good fight, freedoms we all hold dear, hope, natural wonder, out of the blue, peace, prayer, September 11th, starfish, waters of The Bahamas, wonder
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Paula's Paradise 
September 11, 2011 at 1:22 am
Beautiful poetry, and a perfect way to acknowledge those who died ten years ago on that horrific day. It’s a simple poem with a meaning as deep as the sea. Thank you for sharing.
September 11, 2011 at 2:27 am
Thank you so much—your wonderful note means so much—especially from another writer! Really appreciate your comment.
September 11, 2011 at 10:06 am
A nice place to go when something like that happens out of the blue
Thanks Paula
September 11, 2011 at 6:56 pm
Thank you, Sandy!
September 12, 2011 at 2:06 am
Every beautiful thing or small creature that you may take for granted really presides and encourages everyone to continue to travel on taking it only one day at a time while enjoying all the peacful events going around you, whether they be small or large, it does make a big difference in the lives of others.
September 12, 2011 at 7:51 am
So true, Nancy. Thanks for sharing your wonderful words and beautiful perspective … I love what you wrote … thank you! xx