Eight years ago, I started a blog post entitled Why I Believe in Boats. For some reason, I never took the time to polish it into a publishable piece—but I also didn’t throw it out. When I stumbled onto it again just a few days ago, it seemed like a reminder we could all use right about now. So here it is, at last; enjoy!
Whenever I push away from the shore, I take control of my own destiny. Any watercraft will do, but it’s vessels propelled by the wind that have taught me the most about life’s most valuable balancing acts: the need for both preparation and improvisation, confidence and humility. The importance of patience, self-reliance, communication. And, of course, vectors.
Just after college, a 21-day transatlantic taught me that all the spare parts in the world won’t fend off a storm. Almost twenty years later, I brought those life lessons to the 2004 Olympics and won two races. (I also ate a lot of humble pie on the no good, very bad, windiest day.)
Boats teach patience. When the sea breeze fades off to nothing during a summer evening sail, I might get back to shore after sunset—and that’s just fine.
Boats teach us to chart our own path. Even navigating a lowly paddleboard along a familiar shoreline feels like forging a brand-new, self-determined course.
Boats require a specialized language that spans both generations and cultures. For those of us who speak sailing, it can be enough to bridge even seemingly insurmountable communication gaps.
As for vectors: Wanting to understand my own 3D observations about crossing a moving carpet of current inspired me to pay better attention in geometry class. Though I’m still much better with the practical than the theoretical.
Whether celebrating, sulking, or stewing, I always escape to the water—where a view of the horizon, combined with a basic belief in my own abilities, helps me navigate back onto an even keel.
I believe in boats, because getting out on the water helps us better navigate life and all of its transitions. All we really need is the courage to push away from the shore.
Thanks for reading, and maybe this post will inspire you to publish something long neglected!
Amen
Thx Paul. Somehow I knew you’d agree!
Couldn’t agree more. Boats make people and life better!!!
Thanks JJ!
Thanks for the reminder. In these crazy times it is welcomed.
Agree! Unfortunately, it seemed even more timely than when I wrote it 6 years ago…
It’s crazy that after all the years of sailing and messing about in all manner of boats both free and moneybags size I am finding a lot of freedom in working on boats too. I know that’s crazy, already said that, but taking something that isn’t able to float, getting it floating, then do all that you’re saying Carol, is adding more to my water life.
Thank you for your inspiration to remember the simplest of water life.
Michael,
Working on boats can be almost as rewarding as using them! Thanks for your reminder of this and good luck with your projects.