SALT WATER JOYS

Just to wake up in the morning to the quiet of the cove,
And to hear aunt Bessie talking to herself,
And to hear poor Uncle John mumbling wishes to old Nell,
It made it feel like everything was fine.

I was born down by the water and it's here I'm going to stay.
I've searched for all the reasons why I should go away,
But I haven't got the thirst for all those modern-day toys,
So I'll just take my chances with those salt water joys.

Following the little brook as it trickles to the shore
In autumn when the trees are flaming red,
Kicking leaves that fall around me, watching sunset paint the hills,
'Tis all I'll ever need to feel at home.

This island that we cling to has been handed down with pride
By folks who fought to live here, taking hardships all in stride,
So I'll compliment her beauty and hold on to my goodbyes,
And I'll stay and take my chances with those salt water joys.

How can I leave those mornings with the sunrise on the cove
And the gulls like flies surrounding Clayton's wharf?
Platter's Island wrapped in rainbow in the evening after fog,
The ocean smells are perfume to my soul.

Some go to where the buildings reach to meet the clouds,
Where warm and gentle people turn to swarming faceless crowds.
So I'll do without their riches, the glamour and the noise,
And I'll stay and take my chances on those salt water joys.


Sorry for any typos