018 - January 18 2024 - to the founder

On the left eye; a fierce and roiling sea,
a lonesome figure set against the waves
no other soul to mark that he would be
the first of many, cursed to early graves.

And whether it was monsters, or the gale,
or some capricious fortune quick foreclosed
the measure of his courage, no avail
against the judgement Cynthia imposed.

Thus on these waters, when I guide my ship,
my eyes surveying cross this fearsome stretch
that punishes the blithe in her cold grip,
I pray for life, but never discount death.