“I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul.” William Ernest Henley (1849–1903)

Early on in my career as a captain, I ran aground following the advice of a friend knowledgeable in the local waters. At the time of the grounding I was at the helm, nervously doubting his directions, while he was standing on the bow acting as guide. Following his directions carefully, we ran hard aground on an outgoing tide. My friend claimed immediate responsibility, stating clearly for everyone to hear that he would pay the bill, and that it was his fault we ran aground. He was a wealthy retiree and I took him at his word. We called the local boat towing company on the VHF radio and they pulled us off with no damage to the boat. The bill for the tow company came in at $345.00. I was in college at the time, and it seemed like a crushingly large expense. Since he didn’t have his wallet aboard, I paid the tow company and trusted him to get the money to me later.

Ok I have a deal for you! Today only! One time offer! I am willing to trade you a Starbucks morning mocha and lunch at the local burger place for a day in the Marquesas, or the Tuamotos, or Australia, or anyplace that you pick.

Yes really, for about the same $32.00 that you would spend on coffee and lunch out you can have an entire 24 hours in the paradise of YOUR dreams. Scuba diving, longs walks on the beach, beautiful sunsets, and maybe even a green flash could all be yours for $32.00 or less.