Rocks in the River

Here's the truth about white water rafting:

• The rocks are already in the river
• The water will barely notice your raft.

That said, there are things you can control (or at least influence):

•  You get to choose the river and when you take the trip.
•  You get to choose what you do to get ready.
•  You can invite others, but they can say yes or no.
•  You get some choice over the raft and the guide.

Life is a lot like that:

• The rocks are already in the river. Problems will show up, and most of them will be at least partly visible in advance.
• The water will barely notice your raft. Most of what you do is not going to be noticed by the rest of the world.
• You get to choose the river and when you take the trip. When you make a choice, you enter a river. Big choice, big river.
• You get to choose what you do to get ready. There is no substitute for preparation and planning.
• You can invite others, but they can say yes or no.
• You get some choice over the raft and the guide. Look for a good mentor before you launch the boat.

Either way, the point is to enjoy the ride.