Sail spread, you're ready
to depart on autumn waters,
to enter a deep, far realm
between realms.

Away from the Eastern Sea
so many years-
today your return
begins in China.

While absent from home,
your hair's turned white;
but at wave's end
blue hills will rise.

Separated by water,
we'll be in each other's thoughts;
but no letters
to distract your quiet life.