Playing it Safe

Many people go through life trying to play it safe. They are afraid to color outside the lines. Reckless behavior is not wise but neither is living in fear of what might be around the next bend. I remember the conversation I had with the pediatrician the day after our second daughter was born. We were discussing things like SIDS and I kept asking one question after another. Finally he stopped me and said, "This is the healthiest baby in the hospital. If you take a car trip across the country and constantly worry about the possibility of an accident, you will not enjoy the trip and will miss out on a lot of fun." That advice has remained with me ever since.

As I write this, a Malaysian Aircraft with 295 civilians onboard has been shot out of the sky over the Ukraine. We all know the world is not safe. In November 2012 five friends and I were scheduled to fly to Israel for 10 days when rockets starting flying out of Gaza. After prayer and consultation with experts, we decided to proceed with our trip. This was a leap of faith and a risk that all but one of us was willing to take. On our way to Dimona from Tel Aviv, we saw the Iron Dome intercept a rocket out of Gaza. We gave thanks and continued our animated conversation about our upcoming plans. The result was a very fun and educational trip with many unexpected blessings. I met with the top horticulturists in the country and made some lasting friends.

The safety of my four grandchildren is another story. I never want to see them injured in any way. The question becomes "How much protection is desirable or even possible?" The world, in spite of its dangers, is also full of fun, educational, and amazing things which I want them to experience. Three of the four are shy while the youngest never meets a stranger. My job is to temper their fears of the unknown with sensible caution. They all love the water so I insist they learn to swim and wear life jackets on the dock or boat. We have to drive places so we use car seats and seat belts. I teach them about stranger danger and help them meet new and interesting people in a safe manner.

I plan to take them and their parents to Israel one day. It's a place dear to my heart and I want to share it with my family. Like my trip in 2012, these future trips will likely be made after prayer and careful consideration. As human beings we were created to learn and grow by seeing and doing. Everyday is an opportunity for me to see and do something new and interesting. Living is risky but so is playing it safe.