Rowing Your Boat in a Sea of Change

When you set out onto the water in your rowing boat, you felt fresh and excited. The sun was rising with welcome to the inspiration of a new day. The sea was calm, reflecting fluffy clouds.Your oars left perfect puddles. The trail of your boat was straight and true. You felt a wisp of chill on your cheek; a slight riffle on the water amused you. The tiny spout of harbor porpoise to starboard thrilled you and you followed along. Next, a sea otter and pup resting in a nest of kelp drew you to turn and hurry over for a better view.Suddenly, a powerboat came roaring out straight at you, so you turned to move off his heading and avoid the wake. The wind shifted, quickened, and suddenly the breeze became a shivering cool. The hairs on your neck lifted. A few droplets of water dripped off your hair onto your nose.You turn and see a huge wall of wet cloud overtaking you. A few moments later, you are engulfed in gray fog and you have lost your way back.This scenario is the introduction to a series of navigation and safety blogs for you. Together we will explore a variety of tools and habits that will enhance your safety on the ocean. No matter how simple or sophisticated your tools, the key to successful navigation is VIGILENCE. You must consistently use your tools and be aware of your surroundings to enhance your safety in a sea of change.