Friday, December 16, 2016

Ocean waves and buoyancy aids...at "the most wonderful time of the year"



It was rainy and overcast on the Isle of Skye today. Ah, a very good day to be outside, and on the water. :) 


Although winds were calm, there was some fun swell, sneaking in through the islands from the North Atlantic.


Over the years, we’ve learned a few of life’s lessons while sea kayaking. “Waves” feature prominently in our lives don’t they? Every so often, we might feel a “wave” of anxiousness or worry. It’ll come out of nowhere. Sometimes it’s a wave of sadness…completely unexpected. 


At other times, a wave of joy seems to wash over us. We wish, of course, that it would last forever…but it doesn’t. None of them do. But we forget that. When, for whatever reason, we feel a wave of darkness, or depression, or discouragement, it seems like it will never pass. As on the ocean, however, no single wave lasts. It moves on, and releases us from its grip. We need to remember that. No wave is forever.


This holy season of Christmas is often described as “the most wonderful time of the year”. But for many, it’s not. Most of us, in fact, are struggling with one thing or another. And for those who have experienced a great loss, or are deeply anxious about what tomorrow will bring, the weight of life’s “waves” at this time of the year can crush the spirit. They can toss us and turn us…and they seem interminable. But again, the ocean teaches us that the waves will always release us. Until that time, one of our “buoyancy aids” is each other, sharing love, compassion, strength, and support in all the ways that we can.  


There are so many people who care deeply...and that very thought gives strength. 

10 comments:

  1. This joyous season often adds to the anxiousness and grief people are experiencing. Your words are a wonderful reminder to have hope for us all and our world. Thank you Duncan

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I think we all know what it's like, Linda. Thank you for that. You take good care. Warm wishes. xx

      Delete
  2. Lovely thoughts and words Duncan - thank you.

    Warm wishes to you both

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you, Ian, we'll be in touch again soon. Warm wishes to you both from us.

      Delete
  3. PS - trying to place your launch point.... Ord on Loch Eishort? If so, is the "monster" skeleton still there?

    :o)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Exactly right, Ian. It's become our favourite, local, close-to-home launch spot. "Monster" skeleton? No, we certainly missed that. But we'll be looking next time! I look forward to hearing the story. ;)

      Delete
  4. Love the wave analogy! Thoughts come and go, don't get too attached to any of them. Simply notice them, ride the wave and move on. Thanks for the reminder :)
    JC

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. So true, John, attachment means they take us where they want to go...not always a good thing! ;)

      Delete
  5. Love the wave analogy and the gentle way you speak the truth. Miss you guys! Keep writing :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks so much, John, we miss you too, it's sure been a long time. I need to blog more often but have been "lured" to FB. One day, we'll catch up together. :) I really appreciate you coming by here. Warm wishes from us both.

      Delete