New Steps

Reflections by the Sea © Betsy Glass

In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps. -Proverbs 16:9 NIV

I have heard it said that both the months of September and January represents the most transitional times of the year. It is thought that returning to school in September, after a summer break, can be stressful on children and parents, as they adjust to a more structured schedule. And in January, the New Year, equipped with a new attitude, goals and resolutions, it is often our tendency to want a fresh new beginning…to shake off the old and prepare for the new. I think this is largely true. Those moments of pondering our life and seeking His Will are important, so we can know which direction to take during times of transition.

Walking along the beach and watching the waves roll in, one after the other in its rhythmic pattern, is probably the best place I know to ponder life. There is peace and serenity that comes with being near the water. The salt air and sound of the waves seems to clear the mind giving one a fresh slate on which to dream the dreams. Mark Twain said, “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”

Holding on to faith with one hand and our dreams with the other, we should take advantage of all the possibilities God brings before us. Moving forward into the future, trying new things, learning, and achieving is not any different than walking the beach….it takes one step at a time to accomplish both.