how to fix lower unit shifter linkage mercury outboard?

I have a 1985 35 HP Mercury outboard. It will not shift gears. I looked at the rod that comes out of the front of the engine that shifts the gears. It appears to be broken because I can see the end of it and it isnt attached to anything. It dosent seem possible that this rod can break because it is about the size of a pencil. Can anyone tell me where this rod connects in the engine compartment