I think I like this analogy so much because one of my favorite activities is to take my kayak out for a paddle. This activity doesn't appeal to everyone, but I love it. When I try to describe what it is like, I can't. This is an experience that must be experienced to be appreciated. I could not adequately describe the beauty of the Northern Lakes. It is impossible to share the feeling of watching eagles soar over your head while a mother duck and four small ducklings race alongside your kayak. How many people have had the opportunity to navigate a roller coaster of rapids while they paddle the Salt River and, as the water slows to a tepid pace, you look up and see wild horses grazing along the bank. One of my favorites is to paddle deep into the coves at Canyon Lake in the early morning as Blue Heron sit on the shore and mountain goats graze on the cliffs above. While paddling at Lake Pleasant we saw a number of Burro's grazing at the shoreline in one of the coves. The Park Ranger told us that the miners used to use Burros and when the miners left, the Burro's were set free. They have been there ever since and the area where they can be seen is difficult to reach by motorized vehicle. Then there is Patagonia Lake which is known for it's butterflies and, in the spring, the combination of brightly colored flowers and butterflies make it a spectacular place to paddle.
"There is no dishonor in losing the race. There is only dishonor in not racing because you are afraid to lose". ~ Garth Stein, The Art of Racing in the Rain
Although this activity is one of the most rewarding things I have ever attempted, I almost didn't try. There were several reasons for my hesitation. First, I had several people telling me all of the reasons why I shouldn't do it, plus I didn't know what to expect, and I was afraid I may not have the ability. Once I made up my mind, it took several months before I actually got into a kayak. However, I am now addicted and have been an avid paddler for several years.
'The true hero is flawed. The true test of a champion is not whether he can triumph, but whether he can overcome obstacles-- preferably of his own making-- in order to triumph. A hero without a flaw is of no interest to an audience or to the universe, which, after all, is based on conflict and opposition, the irresistible force meeting the unmovable object.
The Art of Racing In The Rain Garth Stein
Sometimes I am my own biggest obstacle. The fact that I am flawed is what held me back. I am no longer young, I was inexperienced, and I am alone but I regret that I waited so long to try this. So much time was wasted before I started in this sport and I admit that I was afraid to try because I was afraid of failure. For many of us, when the spirit speaks to us saying we should try something new we will hesitate. Perhaps we don't want to break out of our comfort zone or we question our own ability. As for myself, I am currently faced with a potential new challenge and I am nervous. As a woman of faith I think "Why do I need to choose? What if the risk is too great? What if I fail?" I know God gives us free will but sometimes I wish he would give us a more precise road map too.
However, when I struggle with a decision an answer always comes to me. Yesterday I was on my way to work and I heard someone on the radio talking about white water rafting. He compared the river to life saying that in a white water raft the guide who steers the raft sits in the stern ( at the back of the raft). As the raft travels down the river, the guide uses a stroke that is called the J stroke to correct the direction rather than forcing control by sitting in the front of the raft. He responds to the current just as we respond to the events in our lives.
Life is not easy, it is not predictable, and it often seems unfair. New situations can be frightening but my biggest fear is that I will not explore a new opportunity and end up regretting it. Our mistakes are what make us, what teach us, and what define us. Some mistakes are actually meant to happen and I think of these as a 'success in disguise.' I can't control what is around the next bend. All I can do is respond to the current and enjoy the view. If I overcome my fears to experience a new path, then take some time to look beyond my own horizon I may see even the eagles flying above me.
Two men looked out from prison bars
One saw mud, the other saw the stars.
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