I just finished writing a friend who returned not long ago from leading a group of 15 kids on a trip in Costa Rica. It was a difficult journey that ended with everyone sick in the airport on the way home. It has been almost a week and I think he is just now coming down from the adrenaline associated with being on 24/7 crisis mode.
I sit behind my laptop and imagine him now, at his van down by the river, living a life that most of us only dream of- rafting and exploring opportunities where his soul and powers that be take him- following his dreams and heart... wondering what is next as he looks at the waters of the American River with a journal and pen in hand, or maybe a fly rod and water up to his knees...
As I wrote to him I thought of a quote I recently read.
"The coincidences and themes that have repeated themselves throughout my experiences have given me faith that there exists a thread of destiny that runs through our lives. Sometimes it has been just the right person showing up at just the right time, or perhaps a specific incident that would guide me toward a certain decision or action, or the sudden appearance of financial help when it was most needed; these patterns convince me that life is inspired and driven by forces larger than our individual egos. At the same time I do believe will is a determinate force in shaping one's future. Both will and destiny court each other in an odd sort of dance, weaving synchronicities...that confirm one is headed in the right direction." -Renee Askins Shadow Mountain: A Memoir of Wolves, A Woman, and the Wild
I would add- or in the wrong direction.
And I wonder what role faith and hope have with destiny and will. Surely the first two feed the second two. When will becomes weak it can only feed off hope and faith.
Nathan, and many others in my life, reinforce my hope and faith which in turn cultivate my will to move forward with belief that there is a reason, a destiny, and a life with meaning.
As I sit behind my laptop outside in the evening breeze with crickets beckoning me into the fields- I think of Nathan and many others that I love. I send blessings their way...and yours.
