Runaway Buoy

When we realize that we are the ones writing our own stories,

it comes with a certain acceptance that some of the "well intentioned" institutions

of our childhoods (church, school, family) might have led us astray –

for a decade or two or three,

like this runaway buoy that, were it still functioning and emitting a beacon,

might misguide an unwitting sailor on some foggy night and guide her straight into the shore.

We certainly do run aground more that a few times in the course of a lifetime.

If we can get over the anger and bitterness and all of the other uncomfortable feelings that arise,

at least it can serve to make the story more interesting

and we can really become the Captains of our souls.

(And we might finally learn the difference between functional and dysfunctional!)

Now, that's a healthy aid to navigation!

Buoy #7 lost on land on Anastasia Island. Buoy #3 floating soundly in Cape Cod Bay.