Mahlon Tisdale (FFG 27) - Naval Cruise Book

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A SAILORS PRAYER A young man stands upon the deck gazing across the sea. His thoughts are far away on his wife and family. Once again he had to leave them, for duty calls and he must go, and he wonders how they ' re doing as the sun is sinking low. Through the noise and bustle, men are busy everywhere. But alone in his reflections, he hears a simple prayer. It reminds him of a little boy as he kneels to pray; but no, its just the sea as upon the boat it sprays. Then again, he hears the voice as it floats upon the night, and he realizes that tears have blurred his sight. Please dear Jesus watch over daddy and keep him company, for I know he must be lonely for mommy and me. We miss him too and wish that he was here; so dear Jesus, we place him in your care. When I ask mommy where he is, she says he ' s out to sea ; but the ocean is so awfully big, please bring him home to me. The young man bows his head upon the rail, and silently he struggles with his own prayer. Dear Lord, watch over the ones that I love and keep them safe from harm. Let them know I love them and soon Fm coming home. Forgive me when I fail you and stumble along the way; pick me up and carry me, in Jesus name, I pray.

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LIFE A T SEA