Shade

At the beach or pool, I used
To stretch out in the sun.
When I turned a golden brown
I knew that I was done.


Even as the sweat dripped down
My skin, white as a ghost,
I realized after several days
I would be brown as toast.


But nowadays, I seek the shade
When at the pool or beach.
I'm covered up with lotion, too,
So harmful rays can't reach.


It's quite relaxing underneath
Umbrella, tree or awning;
I watch the people in the sun,
Where danger's threat's not dawning.


I'll make it through the summer
With no bronze upon my skin;
But hopefully, those cancer cells
Have no way to sneak in.