In the midst of life

[DanTribe]

We are at anchor on a Dutch lake. It couldn't be more tranquil, perfect peace, sun is setting,, just enough breeze to keep the mozzies away.
Also on the lake are two old barges used as Scout HQs.
Suddenly a Reddingsbrigade (rescue service) rib whizzes by, then 3 more. We can see blue lights on a road a mile away. Then a small helicopter then a very large helicopter came and sat right over us. They are LOUD and smelly.
Panic! Had I accidently triggered my EPIRB?
Not guilty, but had to check. A passing boat said they were looking for a missing person.
This morning the barges had flags at half mast and a cross hoisted.
So tragic!
No, what was I worrying about yesterday? Doesn't seem important now.

 

[Mistroma]

Very sad. I used to sail from Scotland to Netherlands most years in the late70s to 90s. I seem to remember that rescues were pretty common on the IJsselmeer. Very large body of water but I think the average depth is only about 4m. It didn't take much for people in small craft to get onto trouble. Steep waves would build very quickly and the effect could be quite localised.

It does make you think about what's important to you.