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More Than You Imagine

Susan Campbell - Author and Speaker

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Simply Put, Be Still: And Then There’s Joy

May 30, 2020 by Susan 6 Comments

Today, the waves at the beach were literally dancing. It was such a great expression of joy. I have been waiting for this day to come. During the past two and a half months, for many of us, our world has halted into a stillness never before experienced in our generation.

I’ve tried to be patient. But it’s hard. I’ve been a good girl and social distanced from my people. In normal times, things are happening in my life and those things give me a skip in my step. But lately, life is so still and it has been difficult to skip. Honestly, I need a hug.

Sure, I’ve enjoyed springtime. And yes, I’ve calmed my spirit and searched my soul. I’ve been introspective, grateful and quiet. Yet, I have questioned what joy looks like in all of this. I have wondered, is stillness void of joy?

The answer came today in the form of dancing waves. At just the right time, in a single moment, the dancing waves and my eyes met. I laughed at those silly waves as they frolicked and played in the ocean. They were so happy. They made me smile.

The ocean has been a wise counselor during this time of stillness, patience and now joy. I’m reminded its vastness is always present whether I put my toes in the water or not. Each day the shore, the waves, and the horizon may look a little different but it’s up to me to take notice and grasp all the attributes of calm, beauty and power. As a sideline viewer of the ocean, I realize I don’t have to do anything grand for its existence to be real. My responsibility is to be still and watch. And eventually, the waves will dance and joy will come.

Dear Jesus, thank you for giving me the ocean because it reminds me of you. Some days the waves are practically motionless and their calm beauty is breathtaking, just like you. Other days, the waves explode along the shore and I am reminded of strength, just like you. And then today, the waves dance and I realize the jubilation of joy comes from you. My soul is full because of you Jesus. Thank you for teaching me the value of stillness. Amen.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Laura says

    May 31, 2020 at 11:59 am

    Wow Beautiful inspiring poignant…

    The joy of the Lord is our strength.

    Reply
  2. Jennifer says

    May 31, 2020 at 2:10 pm

    Remembering those ocean waves when I have been around them. Living in the Midwest we are unable to fly there until this virus has a cure
    Thank you Susan for this memory!

    Reply
  3. Joan Ropka says

    May 31, 2020 at 4:44 pm

    Beautifully said…
    Water can fill the soul with calm or terror or pleasure or health or ..

    “In all things, give thanks”

    Sending hugs and love

    Reply
  4. Laura S-R says

    June 1, 2020 at 3:12 am

    Beautiful picture…I especially love a reminder of our joyful Jesus! Thanks!

    Reply
  5. Amy says

    June 2, 2020 at 4:00 am

    Thanks for this Susan! Love the exploration of what joy looks like in the stillness and love that you found joy in God’s creation. Looking forward to when we can both sit and watch the waves together!

    Reply
  6. Cindy Thomson says

    June 3, 2020 at 6:32 pm

    Simple and true. I miss the ocean.

    Reply

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Ephesians 3:20

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