Previous Challenge Entry (Level 3 - Advanced)
Topic: BEACH (09/01/22)
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TITLE: My first Picnic | Previous Challenge Entry
By Marlene MCPherson
09/08/22 -
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About eighty of us as children along with parents and Sunday school teachers were off early on a scenic journey from the church compound in Kingston to the cool parish of Portland.
The children who were accustomed to excursions were excited. They chattered all the way while I learned in silence.
On arrival, we all gathered and gave thanks. The Superintendent of our Sunday school used Psalm 121verses 1-8 for our meditation. And of course, we received instructions on how to spend the day.
After lunch, I sat on the beach shore alone, playing with pebbles. The white sand was as soft as my pillow and the weight of my small feet sank deep within it. But I did not mind as this fascinated me especially when others passed me and left their trail of footprints behind.
I changed my position and stepped towards the blue glittering waters as I overheard happy shouts from Valerie.
“Over here,” she said.
Juliet swam to the other side holding the ball in the air.
“You’re unfair, throw it to me,” she said.
“You know you swim like a fish,” Juliet said.
I smiled to myself. Then looked around and discovered that those outside of the water were sunbathing.
A surge of sadness came over me. Just then Sister Gayle came over to me.
“Would you like to enjoy the water with me?”
I nodded.
“Well come and let me give you a bath suite.”
I followed her.
Within minutes we were in the water. She floated and came back.
“Would you like to learn to float?”
“Of course.”
The fear left me, and I was open to her teachings.
“Lie on the water as though you are lying on your bed to go to sleep”
I just stood.
“You must trust me. My hand will be your safety net, okay, look at the other girls.” She pointed to them. “They are enjoying themselves.”
She floated again and came back.
“Now it is your time”
I tried to relax in her arms as she moved with me through the water. I welcome these new feelings of confidence.
She demonstrated each step of the way. Then she repeated and guided me.
I relaxed and found myself moving without the support of her hands. This evoked laughter between us. Eventually, I was on my own.
“Congratulations! Congratulations, you are enjoying the water.” Said, sister Gayle.
I hugged her and tears of joy came. I floated on my own repeatedly and she watched and cheered as I ventured a little farther.
I left the water, reentered and floated while the other girls watched.
Soon it was time for the journey home. The thought of going home with a story of my accomplishment seemed surreal. But Psalm 121:7-8 (NIV) gives a promise.
“The Lord will keep you from all harm, he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and for evermore.”
No longer do I have to fear the sea but thank God for sister Gayle’s kindness. She has taught me skills for a lifetime. These life skills are still with me, and it has enhanced my healthy lifestyle.
A true story
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