The Unplanned Journey

THE UNPLANNED JOURNEY by JOHN M. ARRIBAS I had a great breakfast gave a nice tip to the girl I was late, had to swerve to avoid hitting a squirrel I was really lucky when I crossed the yellow line A semi was coming, head on, I made it back in time But I over reacted and landed in the swale Rolled over twice, but I’m here to tell the tale Lacking any warning, I didn’t pack for this trip I scanned the bow, looking for the name of the ship The gangway was well worn, the ship an ugly gray Officers at the first deck, had a few words to say You’re our passenger, see the list with your name Transporting you to the destination is our only aim I was given a cabin number: the location of my room I passed by a group of musicians on a break, I assume I had an outside cabin, yet no windows to be seen No dressers, closets or mirrors, a really weird scene An eerie quiet was broken, by a noise outside my door I spotted an envelope with my name lying on the floor A gala event this evening, held on deck number three Casual dress, music, gourmet foods, drinks, totally free A magnificent ballroom, a stage illuminated bright All the men attending were all suited in white Men were dancing stag; and the women, solo as well Band seemed to be playing, yet only silence befell Ladies clad in white gowns, a red rose in their hair Most passengers were elderly, but nary a pair The food looked great, in dozens of colorful arrays But as I grew closer, I saw they were all papier- maches No food, no music, my suspicions were instantly imparted I realized, all of us here are the recently departed