Smoother Waters

I never learned to sail, but here I am Daily buffeted by wind and waves. May never know how I got in this jam. I’ll end, I fear, in a watery grave. Look at me pretend to navigate Though I can’t see the stars and lack a chart. Around us storms all rage and we but wait And pray the ship will not be torn apart. I hope this tub is stronger than my heart… Clinging tight to wife and sons and daughters We sail on in search of smoother waters… I answered when the ocean called to me Believing in the voice heard in my soul. I threw away my life so foolishly In running from what I felt to be dull. At least I brought with me my faithful wife. Although I know she thought me quite insane. My children, too, must share this crazy life. Dwell not on losses! Think what we might gain! The dream of treasure dances in the brain… There is a chance I lead them on to slaughter… Sailing on in search of smoother waters. The children learned to swim, but just in case Their wacky father hits an unseen rock. Deep down the wife thinks it is all a waste As husband, dear, sails past another dock. Someday, I pray, they all might understand The wind, the waves, the call out to the depths. Although not mine, it’s all part of a plan, The vow I made and promised would be kept. Please, Lord, sustain the hopelessly inept… My better half might wish I hadn’t brought her… We sail on in search of smoother waters. On the edge, continuing to totter, Sailing on in search of smoother waters.