Riding the storm

Sail shortened  she fights the storm

Threatening light, thickened  gloom

Gale increases the waves free form 

Highest tide this phase of the moon

Lee shore close, hear the warning horn

Frantic sailors  fearing their doom

Struggle on deck, two on the wheel

 as the ship makes a heavy heel

The captain orders take in sail

The crew release ropes then haul

Water cascading across the rail

Run under bare poles the next call

Stow top and mainsail,now pump, bail

 She comes upright with no stall

Bold partners fight the enemy

 Ride the storm fulfill their destiny

©Samantha Beardon