What is Your Paddle? — D&C 121-123 — Life Experienced with Terri Anne Flint

A highlight of my summer was kayaking with my sister on Cameron Lake at Waterton Lakes National Park. I loved the quiet, smooth glide of the boat on this breathtaking glacier lake. Without a motor, kayaks are moved and guided by a simple, relatively small tool-the paddle. The kayak paddle provides both steering and propulsion, doing its work under the water, unseen from view.

While in Liberty Jail, Joseph Smith, spoke of another relatively small tool-the helm of a boat, “You know, brethren, that a very large ship is benefited very much by a very small helm in the time of a storm, by being kept workways with the wind and the waves” (D&C 123:16). The helm is like the steering wheel of a car, but for a boat. Even though it’s a relatively small part, it plays a crucial role in guiding and keeping the ship on course, especially during storms or rough conditions.

My paddle (or helm) is the Holy Ghost, and paddling is the conscientious effort it requires to keep Him nearby. He inspires me and guides me through both calm and stormy waters. He gives me confidence that I can do hard things. Above all, He is my comforter and my prompt that I am loved by a Heavenly Father and Mother.

“The Holy Ghost binds us to the Lord. By divine assignment, He inspires, testifies, teaches, and prompts us to walk in the light of the Lord. We have the sacred responsibility to learn to recognize His influence in our lives and respond.”
–Elder Ronald Rasband

“Gospel principles are for me and you what a helm is to a ship. Correct principles enable us to find our way and to stand firm, steadfast, and immovable so we do not lose our balance and fall in the raging latter-day storms of darkness and confusion.”
–Elder David Bednar

What is your paddle? What keeps you moving forward with a clear direction in these stormy seas?

What is Your Paddle? — D&C 121-123