Since I was a young child I have been in awe of the power of God in nature. I can remember the nights that I huddled under the covers as the booming crack of thunder and then the jagged streaks of lightning were so intense and seemed so close that I thought surely that the next one would land on our house.
I also recall another time much later when I traveled to the Greek Islands with my late husband. We were part of a small group that had chartered a ship to visit a number of ancient holy sites on some of the islands. All the sleeping quarters were below deck and ours seemed to be the farthest from topside, which wasn’t a calming thought for me, as I’ve always had a fear of “big water.”
After a week of wonderful weather, the seasonal meltemeh winds that come out of Mongolia kicked up a terrific storm. The waves were incredible and the boat was weaving and bobbing as the storm gathered strength.
My husband was a former navy man and loved the sea. In his mind the bigger the storms the greater the thrill and joy for him. Not me. While he and everyone else below deck were evidently sleeping like babies rocked in a cradle, I grabbed a blanket and headed topside. I was determined that if I was going to meet my maker it would be face to face—not fearless—but conscious and aware.
The crew, evidently not the least concerned by the storm, acknowledged my presence with a smile as I tucked the blanket tightly around my body and settled onto one of the benches that were bolted to the deck. I was so stunned by the truly spectacular show of such incredible energy and power that I forgot my fear and settled into being mesmerized. I remember staying in prayer and gratitude as I gave into the glory of just being alive. The next day all was well and we continued on our journey.
I was reminded of these experiences recently, as I again opened to the awesome … yet tender side of God in nature. I was in a state of bliss as I pruned and planted in my small patio garden. I always feel connected to the essence of the earth as I cooperate with it, and when new life bursts forth as a result of this partnership, I feel a joy that fills my soul.
Later as I sat down to dinner, I noticed an adult rabbit standing directly in view outside the glass doors. It was joined immediately by the tiniest baby bunny it has ever been my joy to see. I watched as this little bunny scampered in and out between every pot, shrub and flower. It was heartwarming to see the baby bunny’s acceptance of just being a bunny and doing what bunnies do. It was another reminder of the precious gift of nature and how connecting with it brings us back to the joy of being alive.
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Copyright 2007 by Fern Stewart Welch
The author's book, THE HEART KNOWS THE WAY -- How to Follow Your Heart to a Conscious Connection with the Divine Spirit Within, is available from Amazon.com, other online booksellers, and through major bookstores such as Barnes & Noble and Borders.
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