Sailing Through Life

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Crystal Sailing
Crystal MF’n Nuding – Captain of her own life

I sailed for the first time recently. It was an absolutely fantastic experience. I’ve been on motor boats, ski boats, fishing boats, pontoon boats, but never a sail boat, not even a little one.

When we first got on the boat I immediately noticed how the sails were connected by different color ropes, red, blue, green, so you can see clearly what you’re working with. Very clever. Of course you need different colors, can you imagine the confusion?

With a nice breezy day on the lake we had a very “sporty” ride.  Sail boat rides are much different from your typical boat ride. It is definitely an interactive experience. The seating is not as plentiful (or comfortable) and we didn’t know where to go to be out of the way.

Our very first turn after really getting out on the water had us leaned back against the side rails, almost touching the water, looking almost directly up at the person across. The pressure was strong and moving around or changing position was not an option. It was a bit harsh being trapped and unable to sit up. Back uncomfortable, seat wet.

But comes the inevitable turn (life always takes a turn) and we were back on top. I got better footing. Previous experience told me I didn’t want to be trapped on my back again. I found a different position so when we took the next turn I was upright with my center of gravity low for balance. With my feet under me I was able to maneuver the waves and lean into the turn.

Even further down under the boat is the keel, a weight essentially, of concrete and steel weighing approx 6,000lbs. The vessel will never capsize. No matter how far it leans to the right or to the left (Starboard or Port), something up top will fail before the boat would turn over. Such is the safety and wellbeing(ness) of our own lives. The Divine, God, the Universe is that weight that keeps the boat upright.

We all know money can’t buy happiness, security, worthiness, peace or joy. All of these things are within ourselves. Like the little cabin deep inside the boat. It is there whether you utilize it or not.

It may get rough or rocky, but breathe and relax as best you can until you reach the next turn that puts you back on top. Recognize where you lost your footing or how your seating could be better next time and make those adjustments. Make yourself more comfortable, be prepared by knowing where you’ll lean for support. Secure yourself. Root yourself firmly in your own center because you will turn again and this time it will be an adventure.

This is the reason for life and why we are here. To have these adventures and to eat good food and meet wonderful people and have experiences we haven’t yet had. Once you recognize this and know how to navigate, you’ll never worry or fear anything ever again.

It’s just a ride.

Here’s to your own smooth sailing.

With Much Love,
Crystal


10 responses

  1. Sherrie Stringer

    Love it! I needed this…I have been swimming in regret today about “mistakes and failures”. Thanks for reminding me that there is no such thing. Life just happens and I am learning as I go. I tend to take this ride and myself WAY too seriously sometimes. Love you!

    Like

    1. Crystal Nuding

      Love you, Sherita!

      Like

  2. Cathy Ulrich

    Wonderful, Crystal. I love the photo (and caption), too! Sailing is such a great metaphor for life.
    Love you,
    Cathy

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    1. Crystal Nuding

      Thank you, Cathy. I was feelin’ froggy! 😉
      Love you, too!

      Like

  3. manningtreearchive

    Enjoyed reading the post. Where is the Captain’s hat?. Jo 🙂

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    1. Crystal Nuding

      I’ll have to get one of those for my 2nd trip! 🙂

      Like

  4. Clare Flourish

    You just might have had your mainsail pulled too tightly in. If it is just edge on to the wind, it lets the boat be more vertical and gives more drive.

    I found you through Cathy Ulrich. Hooray!

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    1. Crystal Nuding

      Thanks Clare! It was our first time out so they were giving us a fun and exciting ride. But, I’ll surely keep that in mind if I become an avid sailor. Thank you!
      Cathy is awesome. Thanks for stopping by!

      Like

  5. Akanksha

    Amazing.. each n every word is so lively…u have shared your experience in a wonderful manner.. Liked reading this 🙂

    Like

    1. Crystal Nuding

      Thank you so much! 🙂

      Like

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