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Sailor's Security

© By Susan Dye

"Increased security" is becoming a byline for all aspects of our lives since the horror of 11 September in New York City and Washington, D.C. and Pennsylvania. From airlines and airports to defense systems to children at school to the workplace to the garage opener. We who have been so safe now long for ultimate security. We want to ignore the knowing voice inside ourselves that says ultimate security really doesn't exist.

Like all of those other cruisers who have sailed the globe, I came to understand that the only 'securities' that existed were momentary: a full moon, surrounded by stars, breaking through the last of a long, black squall line in the Indian Ocean; a 20 knot breeze freshening up and filling the sails after 20 days of no wind in the blistering heat and insane boredom of the South Atlantic; feeling the anchor 'grab' after navigating for 8 to 10 hours through the tricky coral inlets of the South Pacific; going below to take a nap, and actually sleeping, after 24 hours at the wheel during a storm off the Orkneys.

The moments following all of the above were ones of relief at having survived. But, having survived nature. Not hate. Having found that deep well of courage in the face of the unknown. Not fear of a madman. Feeling proud of oneself. Not sorrow for mankind.

Also, like other world cruisers, I know the vulgarities of some cultures, the degradation of women, the destruction of sentient beings, and the disrespect for property. That was probably one of the best aspects of cruising..... learning about others. Learning that I, as an American, had a privileged life with freedom. Until cruising, I had definitely taken my freedoms for granted. The more I appreciated all that I had, the more tolerant I became. And, with that knowledge and tolerance, opportunities consistently arose where I became an ambassador of sorts, promoting peace and goodwill. I have always believed that world peace begins with each person behaving in a just and civilized manner. Cruisers have unique opportunities to promote and provide examples of responsible citizenship.

There will probably be much written about 'increased security' aboard in the coming months. While sailors cannot afford to be foolish about any aspect of being at sea, they should also not give up all the freedoms of what going to sea actually means. It is not an escape. It is not a safety valve. It is an adventure into the unknown, a navigation of the soul as well as the yacht. It tests ones' strengths, mental, physical and spiritual. These tests require facing off scary demons, like bad weather, storms, lack of physical endurance, ripped sails, blown engines, thieves, pirates and doubt of self. However, just on the other side are fair winds, sunny skies, pride of accomplishment, perfectly balanced sails, an engine that starts as the button is pushed, new friends found and the peace of a quiet sunset mooring.

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