Lighthouses have been the theme for this month. One of the topics within this theme has been the central figure all the way through history providing open fires, controlled wax burning frames, oil or coal based fires and ultimately electrical light. The central figure was the involvement of humans to control the light. Today, virtually all lighthouses are run by machines and remote monitoring. There are automatic sensors deciding if there is extra moisture in the air requiring the fog … [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...]
What Do You Do When The Sh!t Hits The Fan?
The drills and planning at times seem endless. For commercial ships and especially ships carrying passengers these are required. Specific drills, instructions, signage, placards and more are posted by law in exact locations with exact wording. The drills must take place within a certain amount of time when initially departing with new passengers and each week thereafter. Every crew member has a job to perform during the drill and a station to report to immediately when the alarm … [Read more...]
Do The Rules Matter To You?
I had three rules for my players: No profanity. Don't criticize a teammate. Never be late. - John Wooden Imagine being at sea, on a ship loaded with jet fuel, in a crowded shipping area, on a very dark night. You are the watch stander on the bridge. You are the person in charge of the safe navigation of the ship. Wouldn’t you take comfort knowing there are the Rules of the Road. All ships are lighted by the instructions in these rules. All ships will turn or not turn in accordance … [Read more...]
