The early morning sun rises above the lake and its brilliant rays pierce the water as if it could enter into it, become buried deep beneath the blue. The lake luxuriates in the warmth of the sun. It shimmers and glows while the reflection of the sun on the water spreads and grows. As if I were witnessing a private love affair between the sun and the water, it is painful for me to watch. The lake becomes so bright with the penetration of the sun's beams that it hurts my eyes and I look away as if I were embarrassed to be here witnessing the intimate love shared between the elements of nature.
When I dare to look again, I see that the reflection on the lake is spreading towards me at a rapid pace, almost as if the sun's light is running toward me. What a glorious feeling! I am not an outsider but have become part of the family of nature. The lake has brought the sun to me, and it is patiently waiting for me just beyond the shore. Humanity and nature are connected in God's loving embrace. There is no shame in this love, only joy. I can hear God's voice inviting me to enter into the still and peaceful lake and become one with nature and one with God. I wordlessly enter the quiet waters and am refreshed in this gift of beauty from the creator of all living things. He holds me in a warm, fluid embrace and I can feel His love completely surround me in the swirling waters of life.
