Our Freedom to Enjoy

Everybody’s idea of enjoyment is different. For instance, my husband enjoys sitting on our back deck watching the birds feast at our bird feeder. Or recently, while listening to a live street band, he took pleasure in watching all the people talking, dancing and interacting. The key word here is watching. He delights in observing and noticing. 

I, on the other hand, find pleasure in movement, especially amidst nature. Hence, when a friend asked what I’d like to do for my birthday, I said, “Let’s go kayaking.” And she obliged because she, too, takes pleasure and delight in engaging in movement amidst nature.

We met in a nearby bay, and ate our lunch while assessing the wind, and the waves. We watched as another pair of kayakers launched their boat and then returned a short time later from paddling in the somewhat turbulent waters. But, we were not deterred. 

Instead, we launched our kayaks and began the strenuous paddle toward our destination; a rock stacking beach just around the point. 

Before long we landed on our rock stacking beach and pulled the boats up beyond the reach of the waves. 

Intermittently, we sat and chatted, cooled ourselves off in the water and nibbled on the chocolate my friend brought along for dessert.

We gawked at a pair of ospreys gliding above us and marveled at the mountains all around us. The water was clean and warm, the sky was blue, and the breeze was warmed by the sun. 

It was the kind of day I enjoy. It was the kind of place I like to be. And it was with the right kind of person; a long-time friend. 

I don’t take enjoying my freedom to enjoy for granted. I don’t take my freedom to move amidst nature while kayaking or swimming for granted either. But I delight, relish and revel in my ability to enjoy my physical ability and the beautiful habitat where I presently live. I get a kick out of and whole heartedly believe the verse that tells me that God gives us richly all things to enjoy. 

Why Bother?

Why bother enjoying our freedom to enjoy? Whatever it is that brings you pleasure whether it’s watching people or moving amidst nature, remember the One who has given us the freedom to enjoy all things.