Henderson House Poem by Nancy Terrell

My last month at Henderson House.
I have the stomach flu; there's quite a storm outside.
The power is off. David is off. Here I sit-
watching the waves and wind
fascinated by the enormous power unleashed
Mother Nature in her glory.

I don't really know how I feel about leaving
this lovely home on the water
with its five green dancing palms.
Three very good years have been spent here.
Years of love and maturation.
Nancy is growing up at last.

It was in this home that I got a divorce,
not only from society but from that part of my life.
I went through the sadness of losing, not only a son
but a grandson here. I also learned
what it is like to truly live with another person,
to actually be in a relationship

During the years in this home I learned
needed lessons - sailing, living on the water.
Out on ANTARES on weekends,
coming about and gybing, but having a home on land.
Now I won't have that. ANTARES will be my home
Am I really ready for this?

Discovering myself during these past three years
more prepared for the unknown.
but such a security freak, I have to console myself
that life can change at any minuet, by choice.
as well as circumstances
If I don't like living on a boat, I can move back into a house,
but it will never be just like this one.

For watching the evening sunsets has calmed me
and looking out on the sea as I sit at my computer
has let me know the value of nature and fresh air.
I have snorkeled my reef, in front of the palms
at least three times a week for three years.
I will always miss that, for I always have wanted to do
just these things. And I am growing to the age
where change isn't as desirable as it used to be.

But just think of the opportunities that await me
living on the sea?


1994