Ebb & Flow

My daughter and I spent two days this week at Avila Beach with friends. I love the beach...the warm sand, the cool, crisp water, the sound of children playing, the salty air, the sound of waves gently cascading into the shore, the feeling of relaxation and serenity. Add a good friend and thoughtful conversation and you've got one of the best ways to spend an afternoon. And just as the ocean water ebbs and flows into the shoreline, our lives have an ebb and flow to them as well. Some days our lives mimic the serenity of a summer day where the coolness of the water refreshes us from the heat of the sun. Others feel like the frigid touch of the ocean in the middle of winter or the wet mist from a foggy, coastal morning. And yet other moments in our lives can certainly be a medley of each of these. I love the beach in all seasons, but what I bring and what I wear is different depending upon the climate and will insure whether I enjoy the day or not. This is the same for my life: my preparations depend upon what I am facing at the moment. And if I prepare carefully then I can handle whatever ebb and flow comes my way. For me, knowing that God walks with me each day gives me the security to face whatever challenge I am confronted with and truly embrace the blessings. I can walk confidently into a storm just as a wet suit clad surfer swims boldly into the winter waters of the Pacific. And when my days are filled with sweet, happy moments, I can soak in the joy as a sunbather soaks in the warm rays of the sun. Ebb and flow? Keep it coming...simply speaking.