Aye, Aye, Captain!

TERESITA TANSECO-CRUZ

The ocean liner appears to sit placidly on the open seas with no obvious movement. Yet it is transporting vacationing passengers to some exciting destination. The familiar part,  for accommodations and activities (and romantic movie settings), is supported by the unseen portion. This unromantic section contains the complex system that does the vigorous job of running the vessel. Propellers, for instance, move the ship forward. Rudders allow turning, and stabilizers control the ship’s roll against the assaults of waves or winds.

I have long wanted to be “cool and collected.” I envision myself with a calm exterior and a hardworking, unsung interior. So I pray to move like the ocean liner. I want to sail with equanimity while the hidden part of me does the grueling work. But what or where are my propellers, rudders, and stabilizers? First,  how can my life exude serenity? I often come charging like a noisy, pompous tugboat agitating the waters around me. Move aside! I am in a rush here!  Or, like a sailboat, I dash to where the winds of approval beckon. Awww…everyone! I am so delighted you appreciate me! Or, like a small canoe in the river, I capsize from the slightest disturbance of temptation. I cannot pray now. Need to run errands!  

How do I transform from tugboat to ocean liner? 

The answer lies in following God’s unique map for me with tenacity. My open heart would be the sensitive radar attuned to his gentlest messages. These vital propellers will move me forward. The rudders of discernment would turn me away from self-absorption towards the needs of others. I will expect no applause. The stabilizers of constancy would subdue upending waves of arrogance or laziness. If my interior harmony hums this way,  I can be like a calm ocean liner. Peace of heart and spirit will dominate my journey. Fearless trust in the Lord will allow serenity to prevail through still or turbulent waters. After all, God is my ship’s designer, engineer, navigator, and commander! 

My life is in your hands, Almighty Captain. Let me report only to you! May I sail in tranquility as you maneuver my ship from within, movements unseen, my surrender unheralded.