What are Shear Pins? Do we need them?

A Shear Pin: an easily replaceable pin inserted at a critical point in a machine and designed to break when stressed to excess.

As a youngster, (ages 8 to 12?), my Dad bought a speed boat. At least that’s what I thought it was.

It really wasn’t powerful or fast. It pulled one adult or two kids on skies.

It was wonderful.

One of the first things we all learned, was to bring extra, and know how to replace, shear pins. (We needed to learn the water hazards).

When the Shear Pin brakes, you are dead in the water.

It seems the lakes in Massachusetts, grew submerged rocks and trees, just to mess up your day. (I am sure this is no longer true).

After the first few times on a lake, we would figure out what to avoid.

I do not recall how many years we had it, but here are some embarrassing moments.

First outing, the start of our learning curve.

– We changed several pins.

– Dad would take us, (skiers), around the lake and back to the dock at full speed, to dismount. (We soon learned, not to do that).

– Dad, hand cranked the boat back on the trailer. Never again, he drove it on after that.

As I got older, I was allowed to Captain the boat, when we went on camping trips.

I surely loved the freedom, the speed, the excitement… (Could I find my way back?)

I would wonder and fish all day. Never caught much. Just enjoyed being on my own.

Boats, need Shear Pins, too often you cannot see the hidden obstacles. They keep you from ruining your outboards.

How about in everyday life?

My Wife is a great Shear Pin. She has stopped me in my tracks many times.

I do not know about you, but I sometimes come up with hairbrained ideas. If Bette, somehow learns of them, I am dead in the water.

She has kept me from many embarrassing situations.

Is she my only Shear Pin?

No, there is One, who Guides, Directs and Protects. He would do the same for you.

If you ask.

I pray, you have, or you will. Find true joy unspeakable and full of glory. Enjoy the peace that passes understanding.