Upward Through Bubbles

In swimsuits which means

essentially naked

the girls gather at the bridge

gasping giggling

budding bodies bouncing

as they climb over the steel rail

stand at the outside edge

hold hands

scream

and jump

the scary plunge

to cool water, Donner Creek where

toe-touching the sandy bottom

they burst upward through bubbles

to sunlight, to air

whipping hair

with laughter, relief,

stronger now,

sweet courage

with a touch of spice.

Frog-kicking to shore

they smile

at the baggy-legged boys

who dared them

standing hands in pockets

smaller now

feigning indifference

unworthy of their loveliness.

(@JoeCottonwood)