The first lighthouses were lit with open flames. These fires were bright enough for mariners to recognize it was marking an area of danger or a landmark to guide them toward a safe harbor. As time went by these open flames moved toward candles, then lanterns and eventually electrically powered lights. Always keeping their purpose in mind and fulfilling it. Today lighthouses utilize various combinations of light flash patterns to distinguish themselves. This is especially so where a number … [Read more...]
What Is The Purpose?
When you decide to spend time, effort and money on something do you always have a defined purpose for what you are doing? For example - The two main purposes of a lighthouse are to serve as a navigational aid and to warn boats of dangerous areas. It is like a traffic sign on the sea. So lighthouses were not built for the purpose of being in a perfect scene for a painting or a photograph. Although lighthouses are in an amazing number of paintings and photographs! It is also critically … [Read more...]
Where Is The Light At The End Of The Tunnel?
Ever wonder who came up with all of these old sayings that are repeated for generations? Sure, it’s only a google search away. This is one of those times in the history of the world where everyone from every culture, speaking every language is asking, “Where is the light from the end of the tunnel?” “We are told to let our light shine, and if it does, we won't need to tell anybody it does. Lighthouses don't fire cannons to call attention to their shining- they just shine.” - Dwight L. … [Read more...]
Are You Prepared?
"Preparedness is the ultimate confidence builder." - Vince Lombardi The experience of this time is a once in a lifetime event. Or is it? Is it possible something similar or different with an impact this severe or worse may happen again and soon? Of course no one wants this to happen. However, what if it did? What lessons or take-aways do any of us have to be more prepared for the next time? Go to the comments area now and note some of the lessons you have learned. "By failing … [Read more...]
Are You Prepared To Navigate Uncharted Waters?
The first time a ship goes through stormy seas with a new crew on board it’s as if it is everyone’s first storm. What needs to be battened down? Certain doors latches don’t keep the watertight seal. During the night new sounds of creaks and moans from the rolling vessel. The first clear day after the storm clears an inspection around the ship will invariably find loose gear and with good fortune no major damage or missing gear washed overboard. Now this crew will be better prepared on … [Read more...]
You’re Great at What You Know, Do You Seek Help For What You Don’t?
Sailors aboard ships all over the world know and understand the need for drills. The repetition of the various duties and roles will cement in each person’s mind what needs to be done in an emergency situation. Then, if something does happen, the thinking component is replaced by the practiced action and understanding of the specific situation. Everyone responds because they are trained as a unit and the situation is handled. What happens when a wrinkle to a situation happens? The old fly in … [Read more...]
