Last week we enjoyed a Sabbath at the beach. We found great delight in the ocean. From early morning sunrises to the full moon in the evening, from the walks and seashell hunts to the waves and boogie boards... it all was marvelous play, rest, and refreshment.
One of my favorite memories is playing in the ocean waves with my daughter, Natalie. We spent enough time out there to begin to name the various waves things such as, "Big Gentles" and "Riders". In a matter of time, these two Midwest girls were calling them and able to distinguish the best ones to ride in to shore.
A few things we learned from the waves:
- Prepare. You keep your eyes in the water and respond. Whether you want to dive into it or jump with it - you move and respond. Standing still you are more likely to be knocked over or swept in the undertow.
- Time it. You want to be in motion with the energy of the wave. Not too far ahead of it and definitely not behind when it hits.
- Enjoy. Whether you call it perfectly and ride it all the way in or it falls short and you gently sway or maybe you get thrown around scrape your knees in the sand - it's all play. Let yourself go in uncontrolled, unreserved play.
- Together. All things are more rich when done with a companion. Whether it's a elderly man teaching his grandson or like us, a mom and daughter duo - play is a great way to strengthen your relationship. You may even be surprised by the conversations you have in the middle of the ocean with no one around! ;)
It's summer - go enjoy it and play with some people in your life!
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