It's been but 100 years,

To this very day,

That RMS Titanic,

Set sail and was on her way.

It was ‘The’ maiden voyage,

That was heard of round the world,

A voyage of ritz and glamour,

Like only Titanic could.

Every soul that came aboard,

Could feel the excitement loom,

For on this day they were setting sail,

On a ship that could see no doom.

While some set out for a brand new life,

And others sought a time of adventure,

None on board had any worry,

Of any forthcoming danger.

You see, this ship was filled from bow to stern,

With excitement in every heart,

For every soul was ready and eager,

To have this journey start.

On April tenth of nineteen twelve,

RMS Titanic set sail,

Not knowing it would be the ocean floor,

That would soon become her veil.

Take time to remember.

Matt Maxwell

When I woke up this morning and noticed that it was April 10th, 2012, I could not help but instantly think about the RMS Titanic. You see, it was 100 years ago today that she set sail on her maiden voyage. It was a moment of excitement and anticipation for many individuals and families with emotions ranging from the excitement of a luxurious vacation, to the hope and aspiration of a fresh start in life. Some were looking for adventure and relaxation, while others were looking to escape their then-present life struggles. None, however, were anticipating the unfortunate fate that would befall the ship just a few short days later.

I know that we are all aware of what took place on April 15th, 1912, when the RMS Titanic came to rest on the ocean floor in the frigid waters of the Northern Atlantic ocean; however I wanted to see if I could come even remotely close to capturing the excitement and atmosphere that surrounded the Titanic, her crew, and her passengers when she cast away from the pier on that historical day, April 10th, 1912. As I sat on my couch this morning, I kept thinking about what it would have been like had I been one of those passengers crossing the brow and walking onto the ship. I could hear the cheers from everyone that was gathered on the pier to wish their loved ones a safe and prosperous voyage. The smell of the salty ocean, just beckoning you to come experience all that she has to offer, would be all but over powering. As I look around, I can see all of those smiling faces that are just lit up with the rush of excitement about the soon debarkation. And then I see her; a little girl, maybe 8 years old, holding her daddy's hand as they step onto the ship and she looks up and asks, "Daddy? Are we really getting to go to America?"

It was from this mental imagry and inspiration that I wrote the poem above. I hope that it was able to bring some level of honor to those who boarded that glorious vessel 100 years ago today.