Times change and there are only 24 hours in a day, even for Pirates! It's a mighty blessing to have so many good things happening that you actually have to pick the most important ones and give up something that is also truly good to be fair to all involved. Such is the story of this blog entry. Draw up a stool and lend me your ear...
Rick's wife has been one of the biggest fans of the band... yep, this is my blog! He was a musician when I met him so I have only ever known him to be going from stage to stage. When Rick said he was going to leave the Intercoastal Pirates, I couldn't believe it. He loves playing and singing, and equally loves this band. These guys are brothers to him. Why would he do this?
The other thing Rick was when I met him was a cop. A patrol guy back then, and later a patrol sergeant who also loved his job. This is what he does to pay the bills, as Pirating is for fun and doesn't make one as rich as some movies might have you believe! Rick's moved up through the ranks, and the job has taken more and more time to do well. At the same time, the band has taken more and more time. Running all the time!
The third thing Rick loves is being with his family, which he considers to be God's greatest gift to him in this long and wonderful life. Now, it has gotten to the place where all three cannot be done, and done properly. Therein, as they say, lies the rub.
My Pirate has decided that he must focus on faith and family, then on professional responsibility, and cannot give less than his best to the Pirates, so he will step away and let someone else step in rather than compromise the band. While I'm glad he puts his Lord and me in front, and while I also completely understand his needing to do his job well, I am nonetheless saddened to think of him leaving the stage behind for a time. He assures me he will not stop playing or singing and will see stage lights again. I choose not to question the decision, and stand by him as we move forward. Thank you all for such long and strong support for Rick and his band of Pirates. Please continue to support them!
Until Pirate Rick climbs the stage stairs again, this is the Pirate's Wench and Chronicler signing off, wishing you all strong winds, full sails, and a clear horizon! Ahoy!
