(A tribute for my father) When we were very young Still with a fledgling tongue We sailed on a ship, Having one joyous trip. The world was bright, And weather just right, Well, sheltered inside, With captain as our guide, My sister and I Thought pigs may fly. But with time bygone Realisations dawn It became amply clear, That captain was mum dear, And the mighty ship that sailed, Was but our dad who prevailed. When venturing outside Now aware of the rising tide My sister and I Knew pigs don’t fly. When seas were rough And the going got tough, The ship serenely sailed on Until all storms were gone. With the able skipper at the helm There was calm within ship’s realm. Watching the problem-solver In union with the peace-bringer My sister and I Saw values to live by. Then the ship sailed away To the port down Botany Bay. Though arriving at twilight Zest remained to do things right, Fresh challenges and a new life Living in harmony sans strife Even after the skipper was gone, The seasoned ship still sailed on. My sister and I Never wondered why? Now the ship has drifted on, Past the horizon and beyond Hopefully to a blissful realm. Will there be a skipper at the helm? Thank you, mighty ship, For that exemplary trip For serenely riding the wave Asked little but simply gave, And leaving my sister and I Those memories to cherish by.