Did you ever miss the boat? I did, in more ways than one.

Years ago, I went to Minneapolis for training. One day I planned a late afternoon boat cruise. Our last speaker was great. I decided to buy one of his books and have him sign it.

Several people left before he finished his talk. I thought, How rude.

After I bought my book, I looked at my watch. Oh, no! I missed the boat. I failed to stay on my toes about the time. Others left early so they would not miss the boat.

Rather than cry over spilled milk, a friend and I took a self-guided city tour.

To miss the boat can have several meanings:

• Be too late (as I was on my trip)
• Fail to understand something
• Make a mistake
• Miss an opportunity

If we miss one boat, we can usually take another one.

• If too late for one event, schedule another.
• Ask someone to explain what we don’t understand.
• Learn from mistakes and try again.
• Look for new opportunities.

However, another boat is not always possible.

• We may not be able to reschedule what we miss. (I did not have time for another cruise in Minneapolis.)
• No one can understand everything.
• Some mistakes will always cause problems.
• We may never have a similar opportunity.

Therefore, let’s pay attention, learn well, and try not to miss the boat.

“Make the most of every opportunity” (Colossians 4:5 NIV).

Do you have an expression you want explained or a thought about this one? If so, please comment below.

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