a flying stick

On our last day in southern Patagonia, Andy and I kayaked down a beautiful, winding, turquoise river along one of the most incredible mountain ranges I've ever seen. It was a great way to wrap up our time down near Antarctica, gliding through glacier water in a bright yellow kayak.

Before we got into our kayak and onto the river though, we had to stand around a campground in flattering wet suits, waiting for instructions from our guide. There was a dog there, and he was full of enthusiasm, even as early in the morning as it was. The Irish woman who would be joining us on our "float" down the river began throwing a stick for him to fetch. The dog loved it, and I got excited too.

When the nice Irish woman got tired of throwing the stick, I gladly stepped in. It was a pretty big stick, and I wanted to make sure I impressed both Andy and the dog with my tossing ability. So instead of just winding up my arm, I spun in circles (not unlike a shot putter), gaining momentum before The Toss. Except I forgot to aim, and the stick ended up flying wildly out of my hand, straight towards our guide and his helper, who were diligently preparing our kayaks for the trip. It almost hit our guide in the head. He was a good sport about it, but I was humiliated, and the dog looked confused. I must have looked so ridiculous, winding up like some pro athlete, exerting so much energy, only to have the stick completely miss the target.

Sometimes that's how I feel in real life, too. I get an idea, can feel the momentum behind me, gather up strength and determination and excitement, hurl myself into the circle of energy, and... plop. End up with arms and legs flailing through the air as I try to make a graceful landing and pretend that's what I meant to do in the first place, as confused animals look on with quizzical eyes and perky ears.

I'm not giving up though -- some day I'm going to have both momentum and aim, and great things are going to happen. Watch out, little dog in Patagonia. Next time you'll be the one who's painted a fool.