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| Do not say, "I think we can make it between those two rocks;" Say, "There appears to be a small channel there." Do not say, "If we're lucky, the canoe will skim over the top of that reef;" Say, "There may be a half an inch left of the center where the water is black." Don't say, "God, this is fun!" For that is a judgment and judgment breaks paddles and bones. When in the bow, never ask, "What do you want me to do now?" Just give the stern your power. Above all, if you do make it over a tough falls, don't cheer! There are rocks waiting for you. Tip over once or twice to take the fear out of the water. Learn to step out right: upstream; lift your waterheavy craft up gently over the top of the current in the shallows. Don't fret about the food and clothes. Let them go. They can't help you. |
Steven Fortney
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