I wrote this metaphor twenty five years ago. I see its as being representative of not only how I thought about life and its meaning then but it largely remains so to this day as well.
Quote:
“One cabin boy speaks.
Life can be likened to being on board a very large majestic cruise liner. Pleasures abound everywhere if they are sought, as are angst’s if rendered the scope to to similarly intrude. Immaturity, passion, neglect, perpetual searching for excitement and adventure, and others – all ensure this.
So complete freedom to access the ship with its multitudinous dark mysterious corridors is ours; as is our ability to assess the nobility, or otherwise, of all fellow travellers and other life creatures. Within this apparent limitless opportunity, however, there is but two seemingly non-negotiable exclusions.
Both the engine room and wheel house controlling rudder functions are, by architectural design, well out of bounds to all except a ruthlessly persistent, select few. Even they cannot unduly influence the massive machines of propulsion and control. Powerful motors and unseen systems keep whirling away. The guiding hand of the chief engineer and originating architect are nowhere to be found. The cruise carries on even when we are long beyond mere remnant remains.”
John R