A grandfather talks to his grandson about the voyage that awaits the boy.

The old grandfather and his young grandson
stood upon the beach as the tide’s frothy
fingers lapped at their toes; the evening sun
hung low in the sky, still bright and saucy.

Looking upon the expanse that stretched out
before them, the old man said, “My boy, you
have yet to set sail, to be tossed about
by the rough sea waves that strong winds can brew.

“A splendid adventure awaits ahead.
Unless misfortune intercedes, you’ll share
a long voyage filled both with joy and dread,
you’ll risk much but win big if you but dare.

“You will learn to ride out the storms that come,
be rewarded with calm waters, blue skies.
Captain your ship bravely; never succumb
to fears that kill dreams, make you act unwise.

“Love family and friends, for they will crew
your ship through dangerously rough waters.
Become an educated man. Eschew
hasty decisions which success slaughters.

“The sea can be treacherous, dark and deep,
where monsters lurk. Build yourself a strong ship,
a sea-worthy vessel able to keep
you afloat throughout your hazardous trip.

“Your voyage upon the expanse starts soon.
You’ve many decades of time on your clock.
My journey is nearly done. It’s the moon
that shines on me now, my ship’s in dry-dock.”

The young boy looked up at his old granddad.
“We going on a boat ride tomorrow?”
“No. I was just musing and a bit sad.”
His grandson’s smile vanquished the man’s sorrow.