swimming lessons

Today I remembered 

that I once taught a girl to swim. 

Not because I knew her well 

or liked her especially 

but because I had something 

that I could give to her.

Thinking about my purpose 

I recall the weight of her body

on my open palms.

I may not have much 

to show for myself

but somewhere

a girl is moving through water 

leaving ripples in her wake.