My road to learning to sail took a much blander path and I wish to some extent I had experienced the sheer terror of quick reactions and unadulterated fun. Oh, sure I may have gotten wet and had to right a boat on its side, but the skills learned would have made sailing a large vessel much more satisfying.
Don’t get me wrong. I did all the right things given I learned to sail living in the Midwest without a sailboat for miles. I took qualified ASA (American Sailing Association) classes on large vessels since that’s what we were buying. I built confidence and understanding on a skill I required not only for enjoyment but safety as well. Unfortunately, it’s taken me this many years to really learn to read the wind and adjust sails accordingly. Concept and practice are two totally different animals. A small boat gives you instant experience. Right, wrong or just plain luck, you’re going to get experience right now.
Not long after we moved aboard, a cruiser asked if I’d read “First You Have to Row A Little Boat: Reflections on Life and Living” by Robert Bode . I hadn’t and at the time I couldn’t find a copy. Our first trip into the Bahamas someone was kind enough to share.
OMG! Don’t let the title fool you. This is a book about life not only on the water, but also in every facet of living. Run, don’t walk to get your hands on one of these books. Starting small is the key. Some of us overachievers have to remember that baby steps can create great mountains.
What have you done where you wished you’d started small? Despite the odds of jumping in with both feet, how have you prevailed?
GREAT post! Love it!
I am definitely one to usually take my time, read the books, take the classes, and learn as I go. Although adventurous in some things (I didn’t think twice about white water rafting), I definitely like to have my foundational knowledge down pat before sticking my toes in the water. Although I agree, there’s something about just jumping in and flying by the seat of your pants. In life, experience counts for everything!
Fab post!
Thanks Natalie, I admire you commitment to learning before jumping. I’m not always that patient.
Like Natalie, I’m one to study, read and take classes. I’d have to say that when my husband and I bought our 30 acres of rocks and trees six years ago we knew very little about maintaining a rural property, we just knew it would be hard work. We’re learning as we go, learning things like how to grow a “rock” garden, how to plant native grasses, how to beat the weeds that seem to be on steroids…
Great post Nancy, you just made me realize what an adventure it’s been to live here. No wonder I’m so fascinated by your sailing life! I can’t imagine everything you’ve had to learn. I’ll be sure to look up the book. I never thought a gnat could be beautiful… lol
Thanks Kate! You are learning as you go and I’m glad you normally study first. Before the boat, the Captain and I bought 10 acres of virgin timber and turned it into a home. In our case we had to tackle poison ivy. Talk about a learning curve. I’m sure your acreage is beautiful. I’m glad I could help put some perspective to your own life. Enjoy!
Wonderful post, Nancy! The fact that kids in this fast paced world can find thrills and joy when screaming along a 10 knots is so great. It will help them as they grow. I haven’t read, First You Have To Row a Little Boat but you can be sure I will.
I first learn to sail by building a little boat, reading a lot and then trying. It took a while to feel the boat. My youngest son has the gift that only a few are born with.
I would hand him the tiller when he was only around 8 and get out of the way. And learn.
I really do enjoy your stories!
Dannie it appears you’ve done it right. And, that your son has the gift is fantastic.