Too much

For the last week, I've found myself treading water in a sea of "too much".  There has been too much stress. The pressure to make major decisions has been too much for me to handle.  Too much sadness over the death of a friend.  I've gotten too much sun and eaten too much food. 

The remedy is simple enough, though the implementation comes with a high degree of difficulty.  Peace, be still.  Three little words that are soothing to the ears and spirit but aggravating to a mind overtaxed and overwhelmed. How does one escape the deep waters of "too much" and head for the peaceful shore of stillness?

Perphaps it's best to approach the situation in reverse order.  Being still is a good place to start.  It must be noted however, that when treading water in deep, sometimes uncharted territory, the choice to be still could result in drowning.  It was the constant motion that kept my head above the water.  So, stillness alone is not going to cut it. 

When you make the decision to be "still", you then have to reposition yourself.  You can either assume a posture of floating, or you will need to find a flotation devise.  Floating out there in the dark waters on your own won't get you very far. Eventually you would tire from trying to remain buoyant or you get attacked by a shark.  Much better to find a floatation device if you ask me.

So then what do you choose?  You could cling to scrap material, hoping it won't break apart before your rescue.  A life jacket could work for a while, but sun and dehydration will get the best of you pretty quickly.  A life raft is even better, if you can come by it.  But, supplies are limited, and you won't weather a storm very well.

It might sound crazy, but for me, it's time to look for an anchor.  The anchor is attached to a vessel that is the means of rescue.  The anchor is firm and steady. I know the anchor will pull me to safety.  Once safely aboard, then there is peace.

Thankfully, I know where to find an anchor.  The irony is, the anchor was there beside me all along.   During my week of flailing and gasping for air, the anchor was present, though I was too caught up in my circumstances to stop moving and reach for its security.  Now, with all my might, I grab hold and feel the exhilaration of being pulled from the water and placed securely on the deck.

Weak from my efforts and shivering from the cold, the peace comes.  I am safe.  My strength will return and warmth is just a few cups of coffee away.