Return to Baltimore

Return to Baltimore

Last leg from Atlantic City –

cables disoriented again,

anchored out at no man’s place

before the Sassafrass, safe harbour,

sheltered from the night.

Morning cables adjusted,

‘Secret’ happy once more

ploughing through the swell,

grateful her anchor finally freed

thanks to trip line and brute strength.

Course set for home, her slip in Baltimore,

just four hours more freedom for

this water lady.

Manatees have been sighted on this leg,

albeit far north for them, how

do they return South against the

strong current, or like elephants

do they return to one place to die?

Horizon slightly hazed, sailboats

and cruisers in the distance.

Houses on shore silently watching all that passes.

Sun trying hard to force through

dark clouds, bringing its joyful warmth

to touch skin

that revels in its warm caress.

 

Jean A Isherwood Farley

21 July 2009