For Andrew

For Andrew

There's a dusky voice

Ringing in my head

calling out over whipped up waves

And sun streamed sky,

driving me to a sleek schooner

cutting through the green water.

The voice grants me my wish,

and my hands grip tight to the prow.

Always I wanted to be her:

lithe and buxom,

hair streamed out behind her.

Charging on across the sea,

utterly free.

She takes whatever the sea has to give

and stalwartly rushes on.

I know that voice stands strong and firm behind me.

Big hands gripping the wheel,

steering me through every storm,

safe and sound.

And sail on we will,

as our precious crew grows

one hand at a time,

till gathered all we are

in perfect tune,

content to sail on into eternity

with every heart satisfied.

Together always,

guided by our capable, dependable,

fearless captain,

laughing into the wind.

Flying over the water,

sounds of gulls and splash, our music,

Following the compass of friendship

truly to our final destination.

It is fitting my friend that you should arrive first on that ship,

for only you could ever captain her.

I'll go head strong into the journey

for never have you steered me wrong.

And come to you in joy

in the end,

in the beginning.
Fair winds and following seas and

God speed until we meet again.