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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 1 – Beginner)
Topic: Think (09/02/10)
All alone, but not at all lonely, I enjoy a late afternoon stroll on the beach and contemplate the splendor of creation that surrounds me.

I wander the shore; facing the amber-colored sun as it descends onto the horizon and a warm breeze blankets me like an embrace. I wrap my arms across my body and consider how God is my Light, My Shield and my Protector

Deep in thought, blissfully unaware of foamy ice water lapping at my ankles until I step on something that stabs my toe. Scooping out the offending object, I marvel at the complex creation of the lavender-hued spiral. As I rotate it, sparkles emit where the sun hits silver specks layered into the encasing. It is amazing to realize that a little creature once dwelled in this lovely little sheath.

Tossing the shell back into the water, I look out over the mysterious expanse of glittery sea that changes colors from blue to green to turquoise. The water comes in. The water goes out. In. Out. How does the ocean know where to stop on the beach and not go on and on?

Continuing my walk, I sink into soggy sand and leave a path of soupy tracks. I think of the story about Footprints in the Sand and of how God carries me when I am bogged down in weariness.

Entering rocky formations that shelter tidal pools, I gingerly climb over slippery black boulders until I reach the highest platform. From the elevated viewpoint that overlooks energetic waves crashing into the surrounding rocks, I dwell on the concept of how God is my Rock and Fortress

The sun is now sitting on the water and the sky is striped with pink, gold and orange against an indigo-glue background. How can anyone believe there is no God?

As I reflect on these things, I have an overwhelming desire to sing the old Hymn “How Great Thou Art”. With no thought of embarrassment, I raise my arms to God and sing to Him until the sun disappears.

I imagine Heaven to be like this: Praises given as I behold My Creator in all His Glory. But until that time comes, I will continue to ‘Meditate on His Word’ and ‘Think on these Things.’
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This article has been read 1067 times
Member Comments
Member
Date
Shann Hall-LochmannVanBennekom 
09/11/10
This is beautiful. You painted a splendid picture for me. I often look at the stars and think the same thing - how can anyone doubt God's existence.
Kathy Barnes
09/13/10
I loved the stroll. I could almost feel the sand in my toes. Are we not blessed that God loves, color, light, and diversity of things? You did a beautiful job of writing.
Sarah Heywood
09/15/10
You did such a nice job with this - I felt like I was there along the beach with you!

This is something I want to be - more mindful of God's presence everywhere that I am.

You have some fantastic writing skills. This was very well done!
Amy Michelle Wiley 
09/16/10
I got to spend last week on the Oregon coast. Like you, the ocean brings me closer to the Creator. Lovely article!
Cheryl Harrison
09/16/10
Your descriptions are beautiful. I love the beach! For me, it's a little piece of heaven. Good job.
Edmond Ng
09/16/10
I can feel the sentiments in your writing, the pleasantry of knowing our God, the Creator of things big and small, of nature, sea and rock. He is our Fortress, the One who carries us when we are weary. We can't help but to give thanks to the Lord as we dwell our minds on all these things!
Shann Hall-LochmannVanBennekom 
09/17/10
Congratulations on placing 9th in level 1 Barb. You're doing great. keep writing my friend!
AnneRene' Capp
09/17/10
You gave me goosebumps picturing you with raised arms singing to our King "How Great Thou Art".
Barb, your descriptions are so wonderfully acute. I'm sure as with everyone else...you had me there feeling my toes squishing into the watery sand, climbing the black slippery rocks and pondering as you were wandering. Love your title too!
Amanda Brogan
09/18/10
I adore the lovely descriptions here! Awesome job of portraying a contemplative beach scene!

Congrats on placing in the top 10 of your level!
Carol Penhorwood 
09/22/10
Beautiful descriptions leading us to meditate on our God! Well done, my friend.