January Eyes

       January Eyes

We were headed for a mooring in the damp and heavy mist of a cold and dreary morning, by the chill of winter, kissed when the final act of landing brought a sadness to my face and a Sailor’s understanding that the years cannot erase. I have only to remember for the feeling to arise in the bones of my December, in my January eyes. I'd depart again tomorrow on the voyages of youth but, as age is kin to sorrow, I must face the bitter truth, I am headed for a mooring in the damp and heavy mist of a cold and dreary morning … by the chill of winter, kissed. ~ Dean Neighbors ~

A Soviet era “Kashin” class destroyer. Photo by Radioman first class Dean Neighbors from the deck of the USS John Paul Jones, January, 1980 somewhere in the Indian Ocean. At one point we were close enough to see members of the crew waving and taking photos of us. Were they our enemies … or our brothers? “And the sea shall grant all men new hope, as sleep brings dreams of home.” - Christopher Columbus, 1451 – 1506