Aware but not distracted

This morning at practice we did four minute pieces up and down the ferry channel in the cold dark morning. Our coach has been putting out "even" boats, and it is fun to race up and down with a boat right next to you. This morning we were working on technique (for me, faster hands away and body over) and trying to practice that at rates that were brisk but not crazy.

As we were going out on of pieces, our coach said to our boat "be aware of the boat next to you, but don't be distracted." What wise words that apply to so much more than rowing! Be aware but not distracted...be attentive but not reactive, pay attention but don't look over...there were many ways to receive this, but the point was, do your best even though you can hear the oarlocks of the other boat and their catches and their coxswain urging them on. Stay focused, head in the boat, the only change you can make is to yourself.

Is this not one of the core teachings of Jesus? Know your surroundings: the five thousand people are hungry and tired, but don't get distracted...don't go running into town to buy them somethng, don't send them away to forage for themselves, evaluate your circumstance and then offer what you have...five loaves of bread and two fish, which turned out to be more than enough! Offer just what you have, the best of yourself, and that will be enough. It always is.