The water is often seen as a peaceful refuge—a place to escape the chaos of the world. But lately, that peace has been harder to find. On the roads and in everyday life, courtesy seems to be vanishing. Whether it’s aggressive drivers or those running red lights, disrespect is becoming the norm. And now, unfortunately, it’s finding its way onto the water too.
Recently, a moment meant to be relaxing turned unexpectedly tense. While fishing near a dock, politely waiting for a partner to arrive, a speedboat pulled in. To be considerate, space was given, moving to the far side of the dock so they could load or unload without trouble. There was room—plenty of it. Yet, out of nowhere, a man on the boat began shouting, cursing, and launching personal attacks, claiming someone was in his way despite the clear availability of space.
The outburst was loud and aggressive, completely unprovoked. The man’s language quickly crossed a line, and it was obvious he was heavily intoxicated. His companion, the boat driver, remained silent. As the situation escalated, it became clear there would be no reasoning with the aggressor. Distance was created, and after a few minutes, he stumbled to his truck and drove off before law enforcement could intervene.
This encounter didn’t leave feelings of anger—but of deep concern. Trembling hands weren’t from fear, but from the rush of adrenaline and the mental tug-of-war between staying calm and reacting to the disrespect. Years ago, that reaction might have looked very different.
But something more powerful stepped in: restraint. A reminder of the Golden Rule—treat others the way you want to be treated. That principle, echoed in many teachings, holds profound relevance both on and off the water.
This isn’t about shaming the man or casting judgment. In fact, there’s a level of empathy here. There was a time when alcohol was a constant companion—enough to numb pain, not cause scenes. And that past offers perspective. People don’t lash out without a reason. Pain drives behavior. As one wise person once said, “Hurt people hurt people.” That insight, though simple, carries weight. It urges everyone to look deeper rather than just react to the surface.
Sharing this story isn’t about exposing someone’s worst moment. It’s a call for everyone to rise above the chaos and choose grace, even when the situation doesn’t seem to deserve it. It’s a challenge to be the better person—not just in front of others, but in the quiet decisions that shape character.
There was a time when a moment like that would have been blasted online, shared for likes and validation. But what would that really solve? Venting anger through social media only multiplies negativity. It doesn’t bring justice or resolution—it just feeds the cycle.
There’s an ancient piece of wisdom that says, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” That’s not always easy, especially when pushed. But choosing peace when provoked—that is strength.
The goal here isn’t to moralize or preach. It’s to ask everyone who spends time on the water, or in life, to consider what kind of energy is being brought to those shared spaces. Everyone is going through something. Everyone carries unseen weight. So instead of meeting anger with anger or selfishness with more selfishness, consider offering grace.
The greatest commandment, according to Scripture, is to love. Not just in the quiet moments or easy conversations—but in the face of hostility, in the uncomfortable, even in the undeserved. Love your neighbor as yourself. That kind of love changes things. It de-escalates. It sets an example. And maybe, just maybe, it makes the world—and the water—a little better.
So whether it’s at a dock, on a trail, or in traffic, remember the power of decency. Courtesy, empathy, and self-control aren’t signs of weakness—they are acts of real courage. Let the water remain a place of calm, not conflict. And let respect lead the way.
Image/Source: Wired2Fish
