Photo taken by and copyrighted by Joy DeKok
Dragonflies fascinate me. I can sit by our pond and watch their air show without realizing an hour (or more) has gone by. They dart, hover, backup, and chase each other resting only for a moment here and there.
The other day was a rough one for me, so I did what works for me: I grabbed a cold bottle of water and my camera, got on our John Deere Gator, and headed for the bog. I knew the song of the frogs, and the antics of the dragonflies would help. Sometimes when I’m there I pray out loud, sing, or read out loud to myself. The birds, bugs, and the bull frogs are still for a moment before deciding I’m safe and getting back to their routines. That day, except for my breath, I was silent. It was as if the creatures around me felt my burden because they were quiet too. My “vibes” must have been bad.
As the sun warmed my aching shoulders (stress is painful), the breeze dried my tears – really it was one of those days, and I rested my head on the steering wheel, the hurt and tension started to release their grasp of my body and soul. The only prayer I whispered was, “I’m seeking You Lord. Your hope. Your healing. Your mercy.”
No other words were needed.
When I raised my head, the pond and woods remained quieter than normal, but the dragonflies were dancing all around me. The one in the picture above, stopped nearby for a little longer stay. In fact, he kept me company for at least five minutes. (I don’t know that it was a he – I’m not well versed in the gender of bugs.)
On the way back to the house, I noticed the pain between my shoulders was gone. I was singing, so were the birds, the bugs, and the frogs, and I was smiling big enough I could feel dimples. A mood swing? Hormones? No – the hurt was still there, but God in His tender mercies had put a song in my heart and across my lips.
On top of that, I had a prize picture of the moment God used an air-dancer to comfort me.
You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.
Jeremiah 29:13 (NIV)
Will you seek Him too?
Joy
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About Joy Dekok
Don’t you love when God nourishes your soul with his Creation? The sun warming your shoulders, the beauty of nature around you . . . He sure knows what we need when we need it, amen? Glad you found healing in Him. You’ve been in my prayers as always.
Amen! Thank you for your prayers and friendship, Diane.
Joy,
Beautiful post. Your writing reminded me of Annie Dillard’s Pilgrim at TInker Creek. You put me in a tranquil scene. I am glad you found peace in your paradise. Love the phrase “air dancers.” Hope you’ll write more about this serene place.
Julie
Thank you, Julie! What a compliment – I haven’t read Pilgrim at Tinker Creek, but it’s on my list – I think I’ll move it to the top.