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