I am often asked what it is like living in French Polynesia. Besides the occasional sorrow for the fact there is no Trader Joe’s and good Mexican food…LIFE IS REALLY GOOD!
A few mornings ago, I was sitting at the end of the dock in front of the house where I live. I was reading from my favorite little inspirational book before taking my morning swim. The topic for the day was about having the ability to see the many ways of how “God whispers” to us. He might use people, nature, or events each day to teach us, leaving us with the yearning to look “up” in wonder and amazement.
I let the lesson sink in for about five seconds and then eagerly jumped in the beautiful, tranquil waters that Tahiti is famous for. Within minutes of starting my swim, a huge Manta Ray came swimming just below me, about ten feet way. We swam together for a few minutes and then she disappeared into the deeper blue waters.
As I continued my swim, I thought about how rare it is to see Mantas in this specific location and I was filled with a sense of peace, gratitude and wonder. Typical of me though…I got a bit greedy. I wanted to see it again, to take a photo, and to experience this feeling of swimming in slow motion with this awesome creature. Within minutes of having these thoughts, the Manta came back again. This time it was swimming directly towards me, full speed, and only about five feet below me. So cool!
I know some of you reading this will say how this encounter was chance and that I was lucky. I agree with you to some extent; but I’m also going to put this encounter in the “God whispers” category and keep looking for more unique, fortuitous, and breathtaking experiences that leave me with no other option but to look “UP”.