Fishing can be a lot of fun, especially in San Francisco. Getting up early, traveling across the Bay, and anticipating the big catch is all part of the excitement. The enthusiasm early on is clearly very infectious and Matt, Howard, and I were no exception. We knew that we were novices, however that did not change our conversation. For reasons I do not understand in retrospect, we ignored the obvious potential problems and focused solely on the benefits.
From my earlier fishing experiences I know there are certain practices that will make the trip more enjoyable. Prepare by eating things that settle well on your stomach, take time to avoid high acid foods. When you are on the boat make sure you get lots of fresh air and keep you eyes focused on the horizon. It is critical that you avoid getting caught up with the guys in the cabin, eating junk food and drinking coffee. While no one is enforcing these principles, experience confirms that ignoring them will ensure that one can get sick.
Matt did not know because nobody told him. He had orange juice for breakfast. He ignored the horizon and climbed into the cramped cabin for warmth and conversation. He quick lost his breakfast and any interest in anything other than sleeping in the fetal position to protect himself from the unseen enemy.
I knew the principles and kept my focus for a while. Then I slipped and spent time in the cabin, had something to drink, and lost my food.
There are many people who have no idea of who God is and what He means to them. They honestly do not know. It is too easy to ignore people who are new and focus on the people who already know the basic facts. So, “I don’t want to go on about them [insiders]. It’s you, the outsiders that I’m concerned with now.” (Romans 11.13)
God loves you unconditionally and without limit. God can and will restore you to your full potential if you like. Ignore these at your soul’s risk.
