Aboard

New Recruits Across the brow and onto gray steel with awkward salute, for duty I board Smiles around deck from self perceived Salts peel Soft the ensign flutters, "Welcome Aboard!" Below deck I'm pointed to rack and home A coffin by design, my gear is stowed Adorned dungarees and white hat, I roam Hatches and passageways deceive below An opening, and alas sunlight peeks Topside, above the bridge, to meet my mates Every man sighs and gives pause 'fore they speak The salt air and bright sun make my heart awake A new sailor aboard with awe and glee I enter with trust, a new life, the sea.