This past
weekend I was very fortunate to be taken out kayaking. I haven't been for quite
a few years but certainly love being out on the water. In the past when I have
gone I have rented a kayak from a local company and just showed up at the
appointed time at the beach, hopped in and taken off. This time I was going
with friends who were allowing me to use their extra kayak, so things
were a little different. I was fascinated by the prep that goes into not only
loading the kayaks but also having all the correct equipment for paddling and
safety. These two paddle frequently so they have the routine down and seem
to be very organized. Of course adding the extra kayak, added not only another
boat, but another vehicle and more equipment. However they managed to do it all
without complaint as I stood by and observed and we were soon down at the beach
unloading.
The weather
was perfect, sunny but with a few clouds to keep the air cool. Once in the
kayak and out from the beach I realized I had forgotten how tippy kayaks were
and quickly learned that it was best to just sit still and stay put. I paddled
off and did my best to keep up with my skilled paddling buddies. At one point
we were paddling along with one person way up ahead (obviously I wasn't going fast enough) and the other keeping me
company at my slower pace. All of a sudden in front of my boat the dark water
bubbled and moved, letting me know that there was something under there and I
was about to go over top of it. I tried not to freak out too much but I must
admit my paddle came out of the water and my body braced for whatever creature
was about to "get me" Thankfully my friend told me not to worry it
was just a seal and yes, after I passed over, his little head popped up behind
me and all was well. Don't think I would want to run into any larger undersea
creature...the seal was enough for me!
Whenever
I am out on the water or even on the beaches I can't help but feel the presence
of God. There is some connection with creation when I am near the oceans. As I
was paddling along I felt deeply connected with the Creator. My spirits were
lifted and there was a peacefulness. Once reaching the far point we turned back
and were now facing the wind. It was so cool. I love the feel of a breeze on my
face and the small little waves made for a more interesting ride. As we paddled
back the sky was growing darker with clouds and the wind was picking up. Then
right up ahead the most beautiful colourful rainbow appeared. It was so amazing
and another lighter one formed behind it and off to the left we could see the
other half of the rainbow. As I sat there absorbing all that my eyes were
seeing I felt so thankful to be part of this glorious world, to have such
caring friends to share it with, and for life itself. God and creation is all so
amazing, it just boggles my mind really. I could have sat there for hours
watching the colours brighten and then dim but unfortunately we were still some
ways away from the shore and the paddle continued.
I must
admit as we went around the last point, the shoreline looked a long ways off
and I was feeling rather tired. My buddy was determined to keep me closer to
shore and I felt I was being herded like a sheep but I suppose it was for my
own good as the water was calmer and I could paddle at a quicker pace. Still,
having someone come very close to you with their kayak can be a bit disturbing
and the temptation to use my paddle as a water scoop was hard to resist. In
fact if I hadn't been so concerned about tipping into the cold water I may have given
him a good dosing!
I did
manage to reach the shore and slowly unfold my body out of the kayak. I can't
say it made a pretty picture as my body was a bit stiff from sitting in the
same position for almost three hours but the adventure was so worthwhile.
So as
always, I am thankful for all that God has given us on this earth, the ocean
waters, the sea creatures, the colourful rainbows that remind us to be hopeful
but most of all I am thankful for all the kind caring people I have in my life
who invite me to join them on many adventures either out on the ocean, climbing
the mountain or evenings out. I am so very blessed.
