Home is the Sailor

(A sonnet for the sailor named Joseph)

To rhythmic lull of wild waves, slumbered he, 

From gusty roar of icy winds, awoke; 

All dreams that haunted sleep left hastily, 

Yet hope remained with him; serene, unbroke.

The boat refused to sink in ocean’s realm, 

It fiercely sliced the raging open sea; 

At last, it reached the earth’s warm, sandy seam, 

As radiantly shone the sun so free.

With hurried steps, he rushed with outstretched arms, 

And hugged each loved one he missed very long; 

The tears were dried by every kiss that warms, 

Fears vanished; once at home, the heart is strong.

The sailor, now at last, is home to me, 

He came home where he will forever be.