To the one thing I've known all my life,
Before I could walk, before I could talk, you were there. Endless, mysterious and wondrous, you were apart of my earliest memories and fondest moments. I walked along the beaches that line your waters with family, friends and lovers. Hand in hand, you were there to witness my finest moments and my darkest hours. I remember the countless times I spent thrashing in the surf to the days spent using my imagination to create beautiful sand castles. You soon became apart of my psyche and my person.
Every sunset upon the eternal horizon is another happy memory that carries me through my stormiest days. The rich orange, red and yellow glows over the harbors of New London, Long Island and Edgartown - You inspire me. It's as if God cast his love over your waters as he gets ready to sleep and usher in the night.
I've sailed on your waters in search of exploration and wonder only to ask the question, "what else is out there?" In the pursuit of true beauty and truth, I sail out on your waters. I sail until there is no land behind me or in sight. Your waters churn and rock me to sleep. It's odd with your mighty waves crashing alongside the hull to my boat. It's both serene, yet chaotic.
When the waves subside, I look out upon the water - Flat as glass. I'm tempted to walk across the water and to dare science and faith. But I stay within the safety of my boat that weathers your challenges and trials. That's what boats were made for, they said; they weren't made to stay in the safety of the harbor.
Fog rolls in now. It tries to take me off my course. Like the mighty and wise Odysseus sailing into the mouth of the Styx, I keep the tiller still on the course I know is true. The devil can take away my sight, but he will never dominate my will.
At last, I see the green shores of the place I've come looking for. My love of you only grows stronger as I sail on, knowing that I've triumphed while you keep me company. I reach the land and I step from the boat that kept me safe in my trials at sea. I walk into the town but I look around, wondering the next time I will sail upon you.
So thank you, my old friend. The salt water I know runs through my veins and gives me strength when I have none. You're as eternal as day and night and you're to be respected, not ignored. We all will return to the sea one day, and I look forward to that very day.
Sincerely,
A humble mariner
