Hopkins-inspired poem

Part of my poetry assignment for my second week was to write a poem inspired by the great Gerard Manley Hopkins. So, here it is:

THE SEA

Nothing is so lovely as the sea—

Where above the sun rises and reddens and rests;

Dolphins dance atop rolling, rhythmic waves, and guests

Of a breathtaking ballet we be,

Gladly; as spoken song in baby’s bin softly

Moms sing, its liquid melodies these ears infests,

Stirring, soothing this heart, ignoring protests

With deep breathes out, in: the wave ashore breaks boldly.

Oh! How wondrous the crafter of such a creature!

By it faint echoes of Thy warm whisper beckons,

Like a church bell, my soul to its Savior.

Soft ripples turning and twirling awakens

My heart, drawing me nearer when too far I wander,

In His presence, largely my burden lessens.