The Wind Behind My Sails

I've never been on a sailboat. I have ridden on a cruise ship, in a couple of yachts and a few motorized sports boats. I have even been given the task of driving my brother-in-law's boat up a boat ramp onto his trailer. Granted, the fear of impaling the hull and my screaming banshee, "I can't do this" exclamations eventually relieved me of the duty. I have had the fun of riding, driving and falling off jet skis. I have never been on a sailboat.

Due to a Door county connection with a past colleague and dear friend, I had my first opportunity. John and Bonnie, relatives of my connection, happened to be in Sister Bay for the weekend. They offered a very gracious invitation to go "out on the boat" with them this past Saturday.

After "coming aboard" and getting situated, the couple began their perfectly choreographed task of launching the vessel. The wench was removed, dock ropes released, engine ignited (only used to maneuver the vessel in and out of the marina) and safety cables attached. For the next two hours, I saw Door County from the water's perspective.

Amazing.

Soothing.

Tranquil.

Peaceful.

I've never really had a wish to fly, but skimming over the water's surface at about 4 mph was mesmerizing. When the sail unfurled and bellowed at the wind's insistence, a bolt of exhilaration shot through my body. Experiencing a turn, feeling the lean of the boat, was thrilling. Getting to know the mind and heart of a very generous couple was inspiring. Gaining an awareness of my friend's childhood life was heartwarming.

Life can be just like that. God constantly uses His people and His creation to remind me of the power of simplicity. Despite the obstacles and trials I am constantly facing and often times embracing, His gift of simplicity is always available. How would life feel if I more regularly allowed the Father to be the wind that billows my sail? How would it feel to breathe if I allow Him to regularly control the helm, manipulate the rudder, and negotiate the sail's ropes? What would He successfully show me if I kept my eyes and ears open to His details rather than my minutiae?

Sailing on the breezes of Green Bay is an ideal metaphor for God's willingness to be present every day.

Thanks for the exquisite lesson, John & Bonnie!