Water

I realized tonight that water seems to be a common theme in everything that is most healing to me.

The day began in Oceanside, watching the first beach-goers stake their spots on the sand, the fishermen take their places on the pier to cast their first hooks, the early morning joggers plod along the strand, and the surfers line up to catch their first waves. I never tire of people watching and soaking in the sunshine.

But the water….there’s something extra special about it. I could gaze at the waves all day. They remind me that at their most powerful, the power that created them is even greater. The endless expanse of deep blue reminds me of God’s grace and love that know no measure or limits. The steady rolling tide reminds me of God’s faithfulness.

This afternoon, Aunt Cho wanted to take me to lunch for my birthday. When asked where I wanted to eat, I immediately answered, “Carmelita’s on RSM Lake.” It’s not that I was craving Mexican food. I was craving more water. We sat outside for a delicious lunch, easy conversation, and a picture-perfect view of the shimmering lake surrounded by trees against a backdrop of green hills. Food for my belly and my soul, all in one spot.

This evening, Charli and I went for a run around Dove. We took a short detour along a reservoir. Charli said, “That’s so pretty.” I agreed. For a couple of minutes, more water.

As I think about it, it occurs to me that another source of peace and relaxation for me has been floating — when I crawl into the tank of saline water and float there in the silent darkness for an hour. Again…water.

Jesus talks about water.

Whoever drinks the water that I give will never be thirsty again. But the water that I give will become a spring of water within, satisfying his or her thirst for God, welling up to eternal life (John 4:14).

My heart is full of gratitude today. For water.

Today’s Chandler-ness:
12-3-96 I just gave you a little coffee with a bunch of milk. You said, “Thank you, Mom, for getting me coffee with my milk. I berry preciate for me.”

1-13-98 You told me yesterday after I said, “I don’t know if I want you to go to kindergarten. I’ll miss you,” “But I’m still going to marry you after I pass kindergarten and T-ball and I get Dad’s age.”