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.