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Home ashore, the Fishermen are resting from their
labour.
Some days in port with families they now can savour.
A respite from the stormy seas pounding on the deck,
time to take off boots and waterproofs, and muffler round the neck.
Others take their vessels now, mending all damaged equipment,
cleaning, painting, welding, cutting, instrumentation ready for
shipment.
Major overhauls in dry dock are carried out quite briskly,
making room for the next in line, of fishing boats packed so thickly.
In the town the Fishermen join other happy shoppers,
presents for all the family, complete with tree and party poppers.
Wives buying all the lovely food for the festive occasion,
remembering who they are catering for, down to the last relation.
The children walking with them, excitedly, hand in hand,
all looking forward to their Christmas which they know will be grand.
Anticipating lots of lovely gifts, at home, they have made ready,
breeding stockings from the finest mesh and mini gallus to hold
it steady.
Let everyone join them in their joy and celebration,
no-one can deny the pleasure of being together on this occasion.
So all who spend their time ashore, with no need for separation,
give though to those who are apart in pursuit of their occupation.
© Copyright F H Bond
2003
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