The Power of Water

It’s difficult to describe water’s impact on my soul. Perhaps the best explanation is instantaneous grounding. Water takes me to another place, one where time stops and peace abounds.

While oceans and rivers are nice, it’s lakes I adore most. I’ve had dreams where I’m in a boat, winding my way through a lake’s coves, looking for my house. It seems so real. A part of me thinks it might be.

There’s no need for me to be in the water … being by it is the only requirement. Of course, there is a natural cleansing—physically, emotionally, and energetically—that occurs when submerged. I suppose that’s why baths and long showers feel so good at the end of a stressful day.

Right now, I’m looking out onto Suttle Lake. My husband and I (with our two pups) just walked the perimeter, almost four miles. With each step, I feel closer to God. Vivid colors—the cobalt lake, the cocoa ground covering, the emerald aspen leaves—meld into a crisp landscape. Yet, sight is not the only sense affected. The inescapable pine scent tickles my nose, the cool breeze gently caresses my face, and the waves sing to me as they go from one shore to another. I feel at home.

Recently, I’ve been longing to spend time near a lake. Why now? I can’t explain. All I know is something’s pulling at me. Is it a nostalgic desire to return to my "happy place" (see  https://www.michellemdavis.net/post/what-s-your-happy-place). I’m not sure of the reason, but I cannot deny this feeling.

I suppose that’s what makes being human so interesting, not understanding what’s behind our emotions and wants. Of course, this call toward the power of water could be a passing whim, something I’ll forget about once the colder months arrive. Then again, it might be the beginning of something much bigger. I don’t know. All I can do is trust.

Trust, let go, believe … the best is yet to come. If you’ve read The Invitation, The Retreat, or The Healers, this phrase may sound familiar. It’s central to one of the character’s personal awakening. Will this be the title of my next book? Who knows. We’ll just need to wait and see. As uncomfortable as not knowing my “what’s next” may be, I’m willing to trust it will all work out.

When we listen to our hearts and surrender the need to control, we allow the most delicious surprises to appear. Yes, there’s a risk that what we receive may not be what we hoped for. But what if it is better than we ever imagined?

Understanding the power of water and its impact on me provides comfort in knowing I can return to Suttle Lake whenever I need to ground, regain my center. I suppose we all need a place that reconnects us to our true self.

What’s yours?