Sailing Sisters

[Marlene Anne Sassaman]

Isn't it amazing when new people come into your life? Well, not just any people, but ladies who sail their own boats inspire me. Regardless of its size, being in control of a sailboat is an awesome responsibility. The liability of possible harm coming to another person is real. The possibility of bring harm to oneself is real. The prospect of doing damage to another vessel is real. Sure the risks can be minimized based on skill and weather, but these two factors do not undermine the assertiveness demonstrated by a woman who is the captain of her own ship.

 

I write this as I reflect on the two lovely ladies I met this week-end. Sight unseen I invited them to spend the week-end at my house. Afterall they were driving from Annapolis, one of the world's premiere sailing venues. The Melbourne Yacht Club, of which I am a proud member, was hosting the Masters Laser Championship. Traveling to an out of state regatta is costly. One of the outcomes of participating in such a prestigious event is the camraderie and friendships that develop. This is an undisputed fact validated from years of top level competition. Especially at masters' events people tend to be less self-absorbed than their younger years. Establishing new friendships, then becomes easier.

 

Take the two lovely ladies, strangers just 3 days ago, who spent their nights resting in my big beautiful beach house. Perfect house guests, they made themselves at home, immediately placed a bottle of "Hot to Trot" wine on my counter. Cleaned up after themselves, talked in a quiet tone, and didn't flinch when I woke them up at 3 am as I stumbled in from a night on the town. Here they were snuggled up resting for intense competition and I dropped an aluminum pan, slammed the stained glass door, and finally turned on 3 different lights as I stumbled to my bed.

 

In the morning my house guests just laughed hoping I had had a good time. Fast forward to Sunday afternoon. Sandi was honored by being the best woman sailor amongst the 57 competitors. Only 6 women raced and despite ten capsizes during the last day's 'front' that barreled across the river, Sandi's light air sailing made her hometown friends in Annapolis send a plethora of e-mails applauding her performance. Her buddy Dorian's spirit, encouragement, and pleasant demeanor complemented their welcome in Melbourne.

 

I know this is a rambling blog entry. Suffice to say I am proud to know Sandi and Dorian. If you have the opportunity to open your home to a sailing sister or two, do so. It's the best way to add a few new lifelong friends.

 

Cheers,