Justin And The Old Pirate

Ever since Justin was a little boy he had been told by his relatives that he was a descendant of pirates. He couldn't believe that for a minute. "Pirates are bad guys. I don't want to be related to bad guys. Justin was in Florida with his daddy. They decided to go to the Gasparilla parade. Justin loved boats and swimming in the ocean. He couldn't believe how many boats were in the water. As he walked down the sidewalk he saw so many people dressed up like pirates. They were all laughing and joking and having fun. "Hmm, maybe it isn't so bad to be a pirate, but just a pretend pirate," he thought.

There was an older man that was also at the parade. He knew that he was a descendant of a pirate because he had seen pictures of him. "Pirates at this parade are nothing like my great great grandfather. Now that guy was a pirate. I'm afraid I'm the last one of my line, but from what I hear these make believe pirates do wonderful things with the money that they raise. But I sure don't like all these people pushing and shoving. I'm going to get out of here and get closer to the water." As the old pirate left the parade crush he noticed a little boy. He looked familiar somehow.

He was having fun. The folks on the floats had thrown beads to him and he was wearing a funny hat. "He reminds me a little bit of me was I was just a boy." He followed him with his eyes until he realized that there was another old guy watching Justin as well. "Well, I'll be doggoned, there's Santa up there on that building. I'd swear they'd put me away if I told anybody." He also scratched his beard and watched to make sure the little guy got back to his dad safely.

 "Well, I guess that's that. I'd better get back to my boat and get outta here. I'm going back to the island of my ancestors for a nice vacation. I love the sea and the memories I have of that place."

 He closed his eyes and about that time he let out a big "umph!" Someone had run into him and knocked him down. "What in the world?...." A little boy on roller skates looked down at him and said, "I'm really sorry mister, I didn't mean to knock you down. Are you okay? Do I need to call a doctor or something? I'll go get my dad."

"No no no, I'm fine, just a little dusty. It would take more than that to get me down." Who are you anyway? I've been watching you from the crowd over there? Should I know you?"

"Nah, I'm just here visiting and watching the parade. I was just thinking about pirates is all." He turned and walked over to the pirate flag and grinned. "How do I look? Do look like a real pirate?"

The old pirate was amazed. He had seen this before. Years and years ago. It was him! "Shiver me timbers, boy, you look just like I used to when I was just a lad.
I think you just might be a pirate or at least related to one."
Then the old man said softly, "At long last..."