[TEA-T5] GLC2O, Care ...

During the Second World War, a ship was crossing the ocean at night, carrying oil. Its cargo was needed desperately. The weather was dark and cold, and the sea was running rough. A cold wind blew over the decks. 

An explosion - the ship had been torpedoed! Every crew member felt the same fear, caught between fire and ice black sea. Sailors came racing up the ladders from the lower decks and began to head for the lifeboats to get as far from the stricken tanker as possible. They could smell oil leaking from the ruptured hull. Soon the ship would sink or burn. 

"Follow me! I have a plan to save the ship, and ourselves too!" cried the captain, but others shouted back, "Are you crazy? She's going to blow up any minute!" 

Some sailors did follow the captain, and he led them below. He knew that a tanker full of oil is hard to sink, because oil is lighter than water. The tanks that hadn't been ruptured would keep the ship afloat. If they worked together, and quickly, perhaps they could prevent a fire, and save the ship. 

And so it happened. No one died, or had to drift in an open boat on the cold sea. By morning, the damaged ship was underway again, and eventually it reached port. 

REFLECTION

What is the value of planning as illustrated in the parable? Can you think of a story in your own life that illustrates the same point? When has positive leadership had an impact on you? 

Post your answer.