Lifeguarding

Once a week when Saturday comes around
Unless I am busy, I can be found
near the edge of shallow pools, watching kids play
for my task is to stop them from dying that day

most are fine, able to swim
and don't break the rules, because they know within
their worst fear is to be caught out of line
by me, their parents, their teachers, or the divine

others revel in the chaos of fun
who cares for the rules, you're only twelve once
running and diving and driving me mad
signposts and warnings just lines in the sand

and some are too young to be swimming alone
and some are too old to be using that float
and all are under my hopefully watchful eye
waiting, dreading that someday they might
be found 'neath the waves, no pulse on their arm
or strewn 'cross the deck, limbs all torn up

but anxiety is not a good trait for one guarding lives
so I calm my nerves and tell myself I'm fine