Blessing the Boats
Lucille Clifton was a mother of 6, a New Yorker, and a celebrated poet and educator. Her poem, Blessing the Boats, brings to mind all those who are starting out-- whether they are newly minted medical and nursing students, residents, or seasoned scientists setting out to build a body of knowledge about COVID-19. This blessing is for their journey and ours.
Blessing the Boats
by Lucille Clifton
may the tide
that is entering even now
the lip of our understanding
carry you out
beyond the face of fear
may you kiss
the wind then turn from it
certain that it will
love your back may you
open your eyes to water
water waving forever
and may you in your innocence
sail through this to that
