Using memories of being on uncharted waters, I told the others of these earlier times, and explored the similarity of being out on the water with these COVID days.
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| Are we ever prepared for the unexpected? (Mendenhall Glacier Float Trip, Juneau, Alaska) |
The initial segment of each trip focused on: acclimating to each person's responsibilities; gaining confidence in self and others; and negotiating the still waters.
Then, the fun began!
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| How do you handle rough times? (Mendenhall Glacier Float Trip, Juneau, Alaska) |
No matter how much we prepared or relied on the guide's wisdom, there were times when the unexpected happened... and we all had to respond in that moment:
- Accepting the unexpected;
- Going with the flow; and,
- Trusting self and others.
Once we reached calm waters, the exhilaration of surviving -- together -- flooded over us!
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| When do you notice the beauty surrounding you? (Rafting in Kenai Peninsula, Alaska) |
My lasting memories, though, surrounded the polarities embedded in the experience:
- The energy needed to navigate traveling up-river and fighting the rapids;
- The awareness of surrounding beauty when times were calm.
Also, when navigating the rapids, our focus seemed fixed on objects close at hand; whereas, during calm times, we could look outward and broaden our awareness.
I would offer that dialogue skills are even more important during these uncertain times:
- Are we listening to the professionals who are explaining how to remain safe?
- What skills are we practicing and relying on while "safe at home"?
- Do we notice when our focus is more inward (self) or more outward (others)?
May we notice the Beauty Surrounding us as we negotiate these COVID rapids!
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| Larry Gardepie (click on link for website) |
Thank you, Larry
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