Refreshment

Ever feel like you might like to run away from life, for just a little bit?  To go to a place where it's quiet and serene, where the winds of this hectic world don't blow in any more problems to solve...or situations to deal with...or behaviors to figure out?  This big ole world is fraught with all the above, and I for one would LIKE to be in the doldrums for just a little bit.  What about you?

I  once heard a teacher explain the doldrums.  It's a sailing term, and it's not a desirable place when a sailor is dependent upon the winds to get him where he needs to go.  Being in the doldrums could be aggravating at best, or even life-threatening, when out on the open seas.  If there for extended periods of time, one could perish from dehydration, sun exposure, etc.  Sailors need the winds to blow; thus, the doldrums are a big negative in the sailing world. 

We humans, however, sometimes need a break from the situations that try to zap our strength and keep us from being our best.  It might be something big...something serious...something tragic...something devastating.  Those are the biggies of life, and for those in that situation, just getting through, just hanging on, is very hard.  Those folk need a break...respite...shelter...broad wings under which to hide, strong shoulders on which to lean.  They need friends who understand, compassion, kindness, respect, unconditional love that brings peace and hope.

Then there are those of us who seem to be plagued with "little foxes that spoil the vine:"  an accumulation of less serious barbs, but strength-sapping ones at that...perhaps it's strained relationships among friends, misunderstandings, hurtful comments, feeling of rejection, being in the middle of "the games people play"or any of a myriad of situations which are very uncomfortable.  Dwelling on these can bring about more serious consequences, for worrying usually hurts the hurting way more than solving the problem at hand.  Yes, being able to communicate effectively is certainly far superior to worrying, certainly better than spreading the doom by telling others, dragging others into the pit with you.  Of course,  we all need someone to talk with, and there's nothing at all wrong with bouncing these off others or seeking wise counsel.  We can all use wise, helpful words from a respected mentor who can offer advice and suggestions of ways to deal with difficult persons or situations.  But ultimately, being able to exercise our faith in the One who knows all and sees all from above is the best answer of all.

..."turn to God...that times of refreshing may come from the Lord."  (Acts 3:19) or as The Message puts it, "Turn to face God so he can wipe away your sins, pour out showers of blessing to refresh you, and send you the Messiah he prepared for you, namely Jesus."

Now there's the answer!  Whether we are dealing with loss...illness...disappointments of all sizes...challenges that seem daunting and undoable...job stress...money problems...separation from loved ones...or any of the things that the hectic pace of life brings upon us...we can look up and find solace in the storm.  We can sit back, maybe even relax,  with the knowledge and assurance that we are not alone in our struggles, that God-the-all-powerful and all-knowing will provide a way through...a way over life's obstacles.

Maybe we don't have to run away from life afterall!