Staying Afloat

1. Hit the waves head on.
2. Keep paddling.

3. Ride the seams sideways, (commit to neither of the opposing currents).

4. Know when to “high-side”, (take drastic action).

5. Know when to “get down and hold on”.

6. Direction is very important and can change at any moment.

7. Reaction time is critical.

8. Power and energy, your own and the crew’s is essential.

9. Communicate what you need from the others in your boat.

10. Know when to eddy out and rest.

11. Know how and when to get back in the current.

12. Enjoy the ride.

13. Your “Personal Floatation Device” will bob you to the surface when you fall in.

My PFD is that place within me that is safe and secure. No one can mess with it. It doesn’t matter what I’ve done or not done. It doesn’t matter if I haven't met my own or others’ expectations. It's okay if I'm turned around and directionless. It’s a place where I can just be afloat.