A shocking splash and then muffled echoes mute my scream. My ears fill with harshly cold water that enfolds my body as rapidly as alarm fills my mind. What happened? How did I get here? Just a minute ago I was standing on the dock; warmed by the sun and oblivious to the icy depths lurking just inches below me.
In my panic, I thrash my arms and legs and repeatedly gasp for breath as I lift my head into the cold air just to sink again. The coat that had once kept me warm is now a heavy burden weighing me down and keeping me below the water’s surface. I frantically struggle to kick but my shoes make it nearly impossible. My arms reach, hands groping in the darkness, for anything I can cling to. There is nothing. I can do nothing to help myself. How can this be happening to me?
As I realize my weakness, a memory from long ago slips into my mind. Images of my dad teaching me to float, flood into my frozen mind along with wise words. “Lean back in the water and relax. Stay calm and keep looking up. Know that I won’t let go of you.” Slowly, I will my body to stop its frenzied movement. As my efforts refocus, I imitate the stillness I learned long ago. I gradually recline in the water and look up; breathing deeply of the oxygen I yearned for a few seconds before.
Mind clearing, I rest on Invisible Arms in spite of the ice water lapping at my face. Peace replaces panic and trust replaces fear as I recall the words I will cling to until I am again on dry land. “Be still…”
Psalm 46:10 "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."
Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Written by: Shari Edwards
A metaphor on life being turned suddenly upside down upon the receipt of devasting news.
