Mother's Cradle

In the Med aboard the Byrd, Captain spoke and gave the word. Rough course ahead, but still on track. If not on duty, then hit your rack. For Rob and I, we had to know. So, topside bound to see the show. Ship was pitching left and right. Walking bulkheads with all our might. Reached the fantail, but not alone. Several Squids were standing prone. With arms akimbo, we latched on. With watered walls, the sun was gone. Then up those walls to Neptune's peak, To witness the chaos we did seek. Shining sunburst on rolling seas, With crashing waves and salty breeze. Right back down to where we started. Loved the rush the seas imparted. Port to starboard, we felt the pause. Ballast held to level the cause. But when it froze for way too long, Gut met throat to stifle song. We broke from chain, one by one. Back to bunks, like all had done. Hours later, with humbled pride, Will always reflect on natures ride.