I am Neurath's boat on the open sea, existing to stay afloat. There is no dry dock for extensive repairs; no port for rest or restoration. If I dismantle to excess, on the open sea I will sink. Structural renewal is labor-intensive and requires thoughtful planning; thus it is gradual. Most daily repairs or improvements are temporary, superficial, cosmetic. For any change, I rely on what I have on board, and the occasional random piece of driftwood. Fortunately, today, there is a significant amount of driftwood. Unfortunately today, much of it is so random it is of little use.

It is interesting that temporary, superficial, cosmetic changes are often more noticeable than profound, meaningful, structural renewal; interesting, but it makes sense. Even those who have known me for more than a few years are not aware of the ongoing, (sometimes frantic), evolution and transformation belowdecks. This is not only okay, but necessary to the process. External attention changes change.

Yet profound, meaningful structural renewal must ultimately influence operations as directed from the bridge, and over time others will notice this functional difference. These constant operational adjustments though are gradual and only peripherally connected to the continuing renovations belowdecks. These constant operational adjustments come from the more robust, fortified upgrades. As the influential flow coming from thriving structural renewal makes its way topside, I continue to find, (and as necessary and possible), revive, implant, nourish, energize, test and shape additional flotsam and jetsam to maintain and enhance forward progress.

When I look up from the bridge, I see a flotilla. So many individual vessels; moving at different speeds, in different directions; some floating – still – unmoving; some sinking slowly or alarmingly fast, in different depths. I have to keep moving; I have to keep working; I have to keep rebuilding, from the inside out. To maneuver in and around so many vessels, I also have to consider currents and wind for my sails and (when I am fortunate to have an engine), fuel for my engine. I also have to anticipate the maneuvering of other vessels. I also have to watch out for pirates, and think twice before lowering the anchor. I also have to be respectful, and at times, stay in my lane. And I also have to navigate, proceed, find my way, forward.

I am Neurath's boat on the open sea, existing to stay afloat.