“Arrr!”

Each night when we return to our room after dinner, we find that our stateroom attendant has collected our laundry, turned back our bed, left us a copy of tomorrow’s “Currents” informing us of our upcoming port and other pertinent information, a US Times newsletter, reminders of any time changes and of course chocolates on our pillows. Last night was I ever surprised to find this letter accompanied by intercom announcements requesting that all passengers keep only necessary lights on inside our rooms and curtains drawn after dark. (sorry for poor quality, I took a snapshot with my phone, so hope you can make it out)

 

On the back side, it read:

In a case of unlikely piracy event below procedure needs to be followed, Announcements from Navigational Bridge will be made.

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN,

DUE TO SECURITY REASONS, WE MIGHT CONDUCT EVASIVE MANEUVERINGS TO AVOID CONTACT WITH A SUSPICIOUS BOAT. 

PLEASE STAY INSIDE INSIGNIA.

LEAVE OPEN DECKS, BALCONIES, STATEROOMS AND ANY EXPOSED LOCATION IMMEDIATELY. STAY LOW ON THE FLOOR IN THE CORRIDORS OR STAIRWELLS WAITING FOR FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS.

BE PREPARED THAT WE MAY EXPERIENCE HEAVY LISTING.

I had to laugh about staying inside the Insignia (where would I go??) This morning as I write this, the ship’s entire crew is participating in a safety drill because we are entering into a high risk area for piracy. Our cruise director tells us that we will remain in this high risk area until March 30. Of course any travel always involves some risk, no matter whether you’re walking, riding a bike, in a car, on a train, plane, etc. We all accept a certain amount of risk just getting out of bed every morning!  But never did I consider even the remotest possibility of pirates showing up during our cruise! And even though I know that being captured by pirates is very unlikely, I’ll admit it adds an extra element of (adventure? excitement?) to our time aboard this ship. Knowing that we’re in an area that’s being guarded by both the US and UK military is comforting, but we do covet your prayers for our continued safety. This brings to mind Psalm 127:1 where it says “Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain.”