Preparing to set sail

Eleven days in counting. Creating this blog is one of many last minute items still on the checklist.  It's titled Wind Shift, the name of a poem created by Dean Olson, emeritus faculty of the Evergreen State College and a licensed mariner serving in the Olympia Police Harbor Patrol. For me, this past year has been full of shifting winds requiring different sail plans. I've landed on one that feels comfortable---a mid career break sailing on a 49 foot TransPac with close friends. They are taking a full year off; my plans are less defined.

Wind Shift
I have experienced my share
of these, not as many as some,
but enough to tell you they can
surprise even the most alert.
You think you have the right sail
plan and then, changing-down,
downsizing, scaling back,
seems more than just prudent.
Who knows what will happen next.
Trim for choppy seas, cut expenses,
cancel vacation plans, do not change
doctors, and above all, maintain
the appearance of confidence.
Avoid support groups and priests,
and don't bleat or moan.
Straighten your shoulders, shovel
another path, chart a downwind course;
just be careful at your age to avoid
the deepest snow or strongest winds.
Normally, I urge you stay at the helm
and be strong, but if you become
overwhelmed, go below, crawl
into your bunk, drink red wine,
and wait for the sun.