What image does Emerson use to argue againts being frightened of having your thoughts and actions deemed contradictory or chaotic?

Emerson uses the image of a flowing river to argue against being frightened of having your thoughts and actions deemed contradictory or chaotic. Just as a river's course appears unpredictable and chaotic yet still leads to a larger body of water, he argues that individual actions and thoughts may seem scattered but ultimately contribute to a greater whole or purpose.