Mistress of the Light

As the sun sets on a distant horizon Hues of red and gold turn gray and black A waking storm seizes the tranquil sea Fearless mariners face nature’s attack Consumed by a plethora of violent waves The storm tattered sail was ripped from the mast Wind driven rain pelted the steadfast sailors Their diminishing hope was unsurpassed Unable to detect the course of his ship A call of distress descends on the night The summons is heard by Juliet The Angels keeper and mistress of light The temperamental fog bell has failed again With hammer in hand from the gallery she fled Perched on a stool for hours she sat Striking the bell till her fragile hands bled The unabated echo rang out through the night Desperately seeking the ill-fated crew Her gallant efforts did not go unheard With mornings light the ship was in view The waterlogged vessel passed through the gate Docking safely within San Francisco Bay Poised on the catwalk she smiled and waved “Ahoy there Captain” he heard her say Juliet Nichols, lighthouse keeper at Point Knox An unsung heroine known by so few Her memory is etched within the hearts Of a most grateful Captain and Crew