After two intense days of brutal fishing and making the top 10 in the FLW Everstart at Lake Okeechobee ... The third and final day arrived. Prayers of safety, strength, and wisdom whole-heartily are sent up to our Heavenly Father.
Expectations high, being number eight of ten, coming from 23rd? the dream of winning blurring my thoughts and the fuel of competitiveness flowing through my veins, I invision the day ahead as I battle the waves of Big "O" trying desperately to arrive at my destination.
My concentration is broken by debris, which I blow off as grass. But upon arrival, I find my dreams are shattered along with my trolling motor. I find my weak self questioning , WHY? WHY? My emotions overwhelming me and I battle as my vision seems to slip away.
The battle of faith and self is fought. It is in HIS hands!
But wait! The Lord said, "This is a very small problem. " And thoughts go immediately to my family, friends, sponsors, and how blessed I truly am. "My goodness, He has guided me through this event with an injured shoulder!" Hope floods back in and competitiveness is refueled. My focus is changed and the Lord allows me to overcome great obstacles. Each fish is a challenge and more rewarding than ever.
How often does a guy catch an eight pounder, sight-fishing in 20 mph. winds with no power pole and without the benefit of a trolling motor. I am, however, equip with a great co-angler ( Lisa Opel). I am amazed at her abilities. A True Professional!
Third to weigh-in, I hold my breathe with a thankful heart and play back all the memories of the day, realizing the struggles that had been overcome. All I can say is~ When I am weak, HE IS STRONG!
