Jan. 1, 2010 — A joyous journey

In 1520, Portuguese navigator Ferdinand Magellan became the first European explorer to find a sea passage between the Atlantic and Pacific.

Magellan set sail from Spain anticipating a western route to the Spice Islands of Indonesia. Initially in command of five ships, by the time he reached the South American strait, only three remained. For 38 days the crew weathered storms and treacherous waters. The men kept themselves alive by chewing leather straps.

When calm Pacific waters finally came into view, Magellan wept with joy.

Today is the first day of the New Year.  In our own way, each of us will be called to navigate turbulent waters.

Seems we’ll need a good captain.

Just a thought. I'm Sid Batts from First Presbyterian Church in downtown Greensboro, fpcgreensboro.org.