The Old Rugged Ship

The Old Rugged Ship

Some think it melancholy
To see this old abandoned ship
Moored in the harbor.
It is a mere shadow of its former days,
Idly rapping dockside--
Its weather-beaten, frail frame
And near-empty deck.
But fierce loyalty has kept it here
At anchor, silent in its solitude.

Its half-mast sails worn grey
Bow etched with the vigorous years
That Grace had given it.
The turbid waters, reflections of deep mourning

And mirror-remnant meditation
Of quiet camaraderie upon the seas.
There it will sway--lone, steady.

'Til by foul weather or by sweet release
It drifts with the tide
And settles abreast
Its fallen fleet at sea.