The Storm

The bright blue sky looked like it lasted forever until it was met by a darker hued sea. The white caps of the ever growing waves were an indication that a storm was brewing beyond the eternal meeting of the sky and sea. The ships were quickly moving into harbor so that they could moor in the safety of the docks. Every sailor knew that being out in a strong winter storm could mean the death of you. There would be no one to search for survivors until the storm blew its course and the fleet could get out to sea again.
The icy water lapped the side of the vessel and the crew was able to see the shore approaching in the very far distance. Normally they would put their sails down so they could cruise into the harbor but the storm was coming faster than anyone imagined. Sailors were running to and fro battening down the hatches and blowing out lanterns in case there were knocked over. The only thing that could be heard is the incessant clanging of metal and creaking of the wooden planks on the ship. The captain would bellow out orders from time to time but wanted the crew to keep their head down and finish their tasks.
He stood tall and proud at the helm of the ship, holding onto the wheel, praying that they would make it in before the storm reached them. His crew of 120 sailors depended on him to deliver them safely back to their waiting families. He could see the lights of the city in front of him, though still out of reach. He quickly glanced behind and the storm was approaching like a wild herd of horses on the plains of the New World. Fear gripped his heart but his mind was clear as day and he knew what he had to do.
Upon his orders, the crew gathered on the main deck and listened to the Captain. “Gentleman, it has been my pleasure to sail with you across the Atlantic and back. We have had smooth sailing but we pressed our luck. We are not making into the harbor before the storm is upon us. Please pray with me that we will survive the night. We must be brave and hold strong in our faith.”
Before he could finish, the storm hit the ship like a like a deafening explosion.