Excuses

One night, wind raged and rain lashed
My ships scattered in demonic mist and sea fog

Another night, golden light washed over the clouds’ edge
Dolphins leapt like crescent moons

Borrowing warmth from clouds, waves stilled—yet no scroll unfolded

Words are as fickle as shifting clouds and waves, beyond one’s control

Mountains and seas stretch vast, traversing ten thousand miles

If a small boat should cross the misty rain to reach an isle

That excuse would be elevated to a reason