The First mate is the Dilemma

"This isn't the place for me, right, captain?" the first mate asked.

"What do you mean?" the captain asked.

"You're all good compared to me," the first mate said. "I'm not a good swimmer, captain. I'm afraid of height when I go check on the sail. I get sea sick when I try walking outside during storms. I'm not good in fights. My navigation ability, my tracking ability are totally useless. I'm clueless when ever we explore new lands or new waters. I cannot talk to the sky and waters just like every is. I just like looking, but push come to shove, I'm just all bite and no bark. I'm worthless compared to everyone."

What is this man thinking, the captain thought. Her crew is more laid back compared to him. He is there whenever everyone needs helps. He shows no more fear when it comes to helping everyone in need. He is trying his hard. Yet, he doesn't see his value? It is all too absurd.

"Am I being absurd, captain?" the first mate asked. "I apologize, if that that's how you think of me."

"No, I just.. You're trying your best, I... we... everyone sees the effort you do. Even few or none sees your weakness, you stand. To me, that's a good quality to be where you are," the captain said.

"Is this the right place for me, captain?"

"I.. why not ask.." the captain form her thought. Did he just read her mind?

The first mate smiled. Her memories seemed vague but the smile of her first mate seemed resemble something she saw in the past. But what is it?

"I apologize," the first mate said. "If my ranting is making you confused, captain. I'll keep it quiet."

The first mate bowed and left.

"Wait!" the captain said. "As a captain, I cannot end it just like this. Here's my answer to you: you tell me, if this is the right place for you. Think about it thoroughly, before we get to the next inhabited land we visit. Then I can let you go if you want."

The first mate, turned around and once more smile.

"Thank you for trying, captain."