As I sat at my computer this morning thinking about what I should post this song came to my mind ….
Row, row, row your boat,
Gently down the stream.
Merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily,
Life is but a dream
I began to research the lyrics and was amazed at what this song was really teaching us as children. I am sure we have all sung this song as a child with a big smile; when I heard it in my head I started to smile but what does this really mean. After reading what I researched I summarized it for you. Take a look.
The lyrics have often been used as a metaphor for life’s difficult choices, and many see the boat as referring to one’s self or a group with which one identifies. Rowing directs the vessel and takes a lot of skill and practice, alone rowing can be difficult; you can do it but it can take you longer to reach your destination. Unification is the key when rowing in a group, the group must be in sync rowing together for the progression of the boat otherwise you, the group and the boat will go in circles and get you nowhere.
Notice the lyrics “Gently down the stream” that means we don’t fight against the current; as human beings our natural instinct is to go in another direction opposite the current. We want to do things our way even if that way isn’t the best, we want to “see what will happen if”. We must learn how to go gently; flow with our Creator and his creation force not only creates resistance but also tires you out quickly.
When facing challenges according to this song we need to face them with a positive attitude and with open arms. We can learn a lot from the challenges we face in life, we can choose to learn and not follow the same path or continue to move in a circle or on the rocky path in the dark. Matthew 15:14 refers to these people as blind guides: They are blind guides leading the blind, and if one blind person guides another, they will both fall into a ditch.” We want to be in the light and living a purpose filled life anchoring ourselves to our Creator and those that will help us reach our destination.
The final line “Life is but a dream” to me means if we continue to focus on the troubles of life, the trials and the tribulations we will begin to feel as though whatever we think on we wont be able to achieve it because of our current situation. The harder we try to step out of the muck the further into the muck we go. It becomes hard to visualize actually receiving what we dream, actually believing if we can dream it we can achieve it. I know for a fact that some even a lot of dreams can come true the key is as you walk, walk knowing that there is light at the end of a tunnel and if I keep rowing its bound to take me to a good place. Perception is key as well people row to reach someplace not to stand still and become frustrated, so if we see ourselves not going anywhere we won’t but if we remain positive and look out as far as our eyes can see we will reach our destination and our destiny.
As we go through our challenges lets try to do so with a heart of joy and as best as we can muster a smile. Challenges should be greeted in stride while open to joy with a smile.
