My shoes leak white over the polished floor.
Hong Kong – ninety per cent humidity in June.

I feel the cool smooth surface
of pearls against my skin –
two rows, cultured in Japan.

The strong flavour of the Orient overwhelms me.
Home is not here
I miss the gentle spring.

Translucent colours focus my mind
The pearls give assurance, keep me calm.
My husband gave them to me
when our daughter was born.
I know I can rely on them at any time.

When stress overwhelms me
I touch the pearls and relax.
They are my memory and my future.