Having a Good Time?

There are common, ordinary, and everyday blessings that everyone can enjoy. For instance, a beautiful sunrise or sunset, the wonder of a thunder storm, or a rigorous hike, bike or swim.

Then, there are more personal blessings such as good health. 

I don’t take this blessing for granted. Instead, by acknowledging what I’ve been given, I get to enjoy what I have and know it is something good that comes from God. 

Recently, I experienced the joy, delight and pleasure of completing an event called the Long Bridge Swim. This annual event, a 1.76 open water swim, was enjoyed not only by me but by 700 other participants, including a friend of mine.

Though I’ve completed this swim before, this time was by far the best. 

The water and the air were both just the right temperature. 

I found my “lane”, I found my breath, and I found my rhythm. 

It was clear sailing accompanied by euphoria.  

During those 80 minutes in the water with my body, breath, and strength, I felt no fear. 

With my background as adult child of an alcoholic along with being suicide survivor, experiencing that feeling of waiting for the other shoe to drop is common. But, that feeling of always being on guard so as to never be blindsided again was completely absent. 

 I trained for this swim and I am a good steward of my physical health. But, the absence of that anticipatory anxiety, I believe, was a bonus and unexpected blessing which allowed me to experience bliss. 

Why Bother?

Why bother having a good time? God has good in mind for us. We’ve all been blessed. Recognizing from whom those blessings come gives a deeper meaning and a deeper appreciation for those blessings.