“It’s the difference between being in a canoe
and a rowboat. In a canoe, you look forward
as you row, but in a rowboat, you look back
as you move forward. Our way forward is
behind us. . . .”*

Yes, we need the forward-looking canoe,
to help with our need,
but the rowboat and kayak, we need, too;
Take heed, all three we need.

To look forward, the canoe will fill the need;
for the necessary look back, the rowboat will do;
When strong winds the canoe do impede,
the sleek and stable kayak will get us through.

*Chris Haw as quoted in a meditation by Richard Rohr