Standing here on the bluff above the water, I see you traveling on your journey down the river. I can see where you stepped into the river; it was smooth and clear. There was no danger when you entered the journey. What began with peace and joy was destined to change. As you traveled; the river picked up speed. There were obstacles between the birth of your journey and it’s winding course that takes you on an adventure. And, I can see much from where I stand, watching your progress. I want to join you and share in the experience; but, something holds me back. Fear or anxiety keep me from jumping in without knowing what will happen next; because it is outside of my control.
I can see how you were able to manuever and avoid some of those obstacles; and yet, from where I watch, I can see that there are places on this river where you will not be able to avoid the debris. It is obvious that you will be slammed into the rocks in some places, there are deep waters up ahead; there are places where the water moves so fast that it tumbles over the waterfall with a suddeness that takes my breath away. You took no precautions, will you survive the fall?
It would have served no purpose to have shouted warnings to you, of the dangers up ahead, when you stepped into the smooth, calm waters on your entry into the river of life; for you would not have heeded the warning. You could not see those dangers for yourself from where the journey began. The joy of the water surrounded you with a false sense of security and peace. You looked so happy; enjoying the ride. You thought you were in control of the journey. Yet, who controls the will of the river? No one has the power to control it except God who made the river. The challenges were to come along the way. They could not be avoided forever; it is the way of life for us all.
The frequent traveler who chooses the same path, over and over again, learns much and can be a guide; yet, by spending all of their time guiding others, the guide risks missing out on new life experiences of their own. So we must understand that life has it’s hurts…and, if a person does not risk the occasional bump or bruise, they will miss much of the joy of the journey. For it is in traveling the river of life where we gain knowledge, experience, and a connection to the world and those around us. I decide to no longer just observe…I want to have an exciting adventure of my own.
The waters may be deep, there could be rapids, there are rocks and debris for each one of us. However, there is also an appreciation for the beauty of the scenery as we travel, the people that we meet and bond with, the thrill of the experience as we take in the challenge and the risks. Living in fear paralyzes and prevents many from experiencing all that life has to offer. Trusting in God, the Creator of the universe, is a lifelong learning lesson. Really, when you think about it, what do you control?
I need to fear less and risk more. I am not in control of what happens in all areas of life. You need to risk less and recognize that fear is a tool that can help prevent avoidable, foolish risks. For you are not in control of all areas of life either. By sharing and connecting with one another, understanding that ultimately God is the only one in control; we will take more from the river experiences and live more fully; appreciating the journey and the scenery along the way. Life is short…let’s not waste any of it!
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Rainy, your writing is simply beautiful; your thoughtful observations about the river of life are truly inspiring. As you so wonderfully said, I will start to “take more from the river experiences and live more fully.”
I’m so glad you found my post on When I Am An Old Woman I Shall Wear Purple. Like you, I see myself in the poem Warning, which is also my favorite poem in the book.
This post really speaks to me today. I’ve been struggling for a few years now and went through several very strong emotional periods with God – trust, some peace, then fierce anger and resentment, now apathy. I don’t really want to pray anymore, but I’m too restless to stay where I am.
The most frustrating is God’s seeming refusal to move. It’s like I’m tethered to one spot for the rest of my life. No matter what I do or try, I end up in the same place.
Thanks for the post! I’ve read it a few times and am sure I’ll read it again.
Rainy thanks for sharing.
I really believe God gives us control of so many things. Although fear is something that needs to be respected as a tool to guide us away from the things that can cause harm in our lives. I also really believe that it can keep us from doing so many things and having contol over some awesome things that God has intended for our lives.
We set so many limitations for ourselves and a lot of it is because of fear. We need to learn to change our mindsets.
I have just started writing blog posts on my blog to help people remove these limitations and become successful in what they want to acheive. http://www.theautopilotwealthinstitute.com/blog/?p=38
Thanks for your awesome blog posts.
Jeff
http://www.theautopilotwealthinstitute.com/blog/?p=38