While in a canoe, we have to mainly remember these things: To stay in the center, to work together, and to be alert ...prepared for what lies ahead.

Going downstream, what lies ahead is partially unseen, and necessitates that we negotiate any rough waters. But even on a seemingly peaceful placid day, moving smoothly across known waters of a favorite lake, we must look to the horizon ...and be alert enough to recognize whether a storm may be gathering.

Can we see birds in flight, or merely feel it in the air? Those may be indications of what the weather may be like for today, but on a more serious note ...what really lies ahead?

What lies ahead, determining our future ...let it not be lies!

If the truth cannot be discerned from a lie, then the lie has already gotten a foot in the door ...and developed its stronghold.

A lie can tolerate a little truth, and actually does benefit from it ...but the absolute truth never invites a lie. Any ground given over to doubt, will assuredly soon compromise the truth.

Not all compromise is bad. We should stand ready to compromise our preferences, our pride, and our individual expectations ...but never at the expense of compromising the truth. And our main convictions should never be compromised.