As I watched how differently my husband and I were dealing with this issue ,it occurred to me that we may be traveling the same journey, but we are in different boats. These boats we are traveling in
are filled with lots of holes .Doubt, anger, frustration, fear, loneliness, sadness, lack of understanding and many others.
Talk about it.
Help each other realize you are not alone. You may be experiencing some of the same feelings. Share websites and materials you have found helpful. Talk to those who you feel may be helpful, such as a Bishop or Stake President, maybe a youth leader. As a parent. Talk to your child. Ask them those things that you don't understand.
We must also realize that there are some people who have speed boats with very little holes.
They just are traveling this journey at a different pace than you. Don't let that bother you. Don't add more holes to your boat.
Are the things we say and do poking holes in our boat, .... or maybe someone else's? Do you get angry because they "Just don't get it" Do you poke holes in someone else boat because they see things different than you? Don't worry if your boat is not the prettiest, or fastest. Don't worry if someone passed you up. Life is hard, this journey is hard, but the greatest views are from the river , not the shore.
Standing on the shore will only give you a limited view. Have the courage to get in a boat, launch into this new experience . There are many on the river, you do not travel it alone. Wave as they go by. Maybe someone will offer a little tug to help you along, or maybe you will do the "towing" sometimes. Sometimes just when you think it is going good, you will find yourself stuck in the "mire"
It happens to the best of us. Just readjust. Reevaluate. There will be people and circumstances that will come across your path on this journey that might push you off course. Maybe it will crash you into the rocks, or give you a wild ride through the rapids. HOLD ON.
Look for others on the river who can help you.
We have also seen in our family those who don't even want to get in the river. They refuse to be a part of the journey. As hard as that is, especially if they are close to you, you cannot let that affect your journey. It will be a hole in your boat, but you can patch it. Set out on your journey, Enjoy the views and report on the beautiful scenery. Someday they will want to join you. Maybe there are so many holes in their boat at this time that they would sink. See if you can patch any for them. Continue to report to them and let them know you want them to join you .Let them know you love them. Be wise and prayerful. There is ONE who is always with you and will guide you on your journey
