Tsunami

In his arms he held her
his still and lifeless child
a victim of the deluge
the water raging wild

there had been no warning
no shelter from the sea
it enveloped all in its path
there was no time to flee

loved ones searching loved ones
lost, gone without a trace
the confusion, worry, sadness
etched upon each face

the waters showed no mercy
no distinction did it make
it took the life of everyone
who, dared stand in its wake

no family escaped its wrath
it touched the lives of everyone
mother, daughter, young and old
grandparent, father, son

no soul was left untouched that day
the whole world held its breath
as so many helpless loved ones
stared at the face of death

in the face of devastation
the whole world shed a tear
as mothers, fathers, children
searched for those who were so dear

so please take a moment
put your worries to one side
and pray for all the thousands
who, on that sad day died