Everything happens for a reason. Where we are meant to be at specific times, the trials we encounter and the tribulations that inject us with copious amounts of character are all part of a grander plan. Or so many have said.
How much control over our own destiny do we truly have? We have the freedom to make decisions yet sometimes the consequences of those decisions are completely out of our control. It is also through those decisions we see a world full of uncontrollable variables play out before our eyes, a play that has a legion of outcomes with only one string attached to our very finger to manipulate a fraction of what is going on. And yet, that fraction can make or break an entire scene.
This contract has been trying for a variety of reasons, all of which have tested the virtues of patience and perserverence. This summer is gearing up to be among the toughest yet, and the only string I have to pluck is that of prayer. But maybe one pluck can resonate a note so breathtaking and hopeful that equilibirum will, once again, be reached in my mind and harmony in my heart.
Our current Alaska itinerary is far from perfect. There is no Glacier Bay, no Skagway or Vancouver, no evening stay in Juneau, no beautiful sail through the Johnstone Straights and Seymore Narrows (both featuring some of the best whale-watching on the Pacific Coast), no College Fjord or beautiful calls to Seward. I was spoiled last year in every way. However, upon returning this Sunday refreshed, I will chart out a new outlook for our repeating 7-day Seattle-Seattle itinerary. After all, how can it be possible to have a bad Alaskan itinerary? It's possible, but it can still be enjoyed.
But that is the least of the problems, and it's really a correction that must be made on my end. An attitude adjustment is needed, and with that will come a very enjoyable time. During my nine-week experience in Bermuda last year, I know that a positive attitude, a great working environment and surrounding oneself with great people will bring out the best of what seems like a boring itinerary. This will also greatly help with the far more serious issues looming, but those will not be discussed at this time.
Right now, I must focus on returning to work better than ever, and finishing the final two-and-a-half months of my contract on multiple strong notes, one pluck at a time.
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