The Journey Inward

We arrived late at night
To our Airbnb,
And fell into bed, 
But my mind couldn’t sleep.

So much to pack in 
Over the next few days,
Meals, parties, ceremony, 
And extended family. 

One final drill, 
On the great green lawn. 
Cadets in sharp uniforms,
None daring to yawn! 

It made me tear up, 
As it usually does, 
Seeing their sacrifice 
For protecting our cause. 

Our family gathered 
And celebrated G. 
I gave a toast 
Quite emotionally. 

My girls altogether 
Is something rare, 
So I savored the moments 
And stored them with care. 

The ceremony was somber, 
But with moments so Light, 
A longheld tradition, 
These new ensigns in white. 

We drove home quite tired, 
We came, saw and conquered. 
Now get the house ready, 
For all to onboard! 

Photos: New London, CT. 5.21.25 by Paul Duddy and LA.