We have a circular pool and one of the summer’s must-do every year is create a whirlpool in the water. One of the kids will start swimming around the perimeter and without even a declaration of the plan, all the kids cohesively start walking, swimming, and marching in the same direction.
Their activity stirs up all the hair ties, dirt, dead bugs, and leaves that have gathered since the last cleaning and it all starts to collect in the middle of the pool. The kids are too busy to notice the collateral damage forming, but it is easy for the parent supervising outside of the pool to recognize.
It takes only a few minutes for their unison to generate enough momentum the water takes over and swirls on its own. Each time it seems the weaker ones forget how innocently, and quickly, having fun will terrifyingly sweep them off their feet. Before they know it, the whirlpool has completely taken control and they do not even realize they are at the mercy of it.
The stronger ones no longer need to use their own energy to move around. They can tuck their legs, turn onto their backs, and ride the whirl around. They are unintentionally unfazed the vulnerable are struggling to keep their heads above water. They do not notice the weaker kids are filled with fear and panic as the force of the water overpowers them.
When I observe the littles crossover from fun to frightened, I tell the older ones it is time to put a stop to the chaos. When called upon, it is now the responsibility of the strong kids in the pool to stand up, face the pressure of the water on their chest, trudge against the force, and slow the whirlpool to protect the tired. It takes purpose and strength to withstand the current, but they do not stop until the water calms. In a short period of time, everyone in the pool is again jumping around happily as joy spills out in the form of laughter.
I see a resemblance to the world around me. Family, friends, and strangers being swept up by turmoil. Filled with fear. Exhausted. At the mercy of pessimism and the unknown that blur their vision and pull them down.
Fortunately, we are all so blessed to have a parent observing. He sees the collateral damage collecting. He sees those who have been swept up off their feet. And He sees those of us on our backs floating with the tide. Our Heavenly Father has called upon those of us strong in the faith to “put a stop to the chaos.” We have been charged with standing up, facing the pressure, and trudging against the forces of the enemy. As Christians, we can no longer be unfazed the vulnerable among us are drowning.
I encourage you to do something today to lessen the destroying intensity. Even small actions made by many will disrupt the whirlpool. With arm locking strength, we can calm the waters, and witness joy spilling out all around us.
Wishing you unlimited blessings and encouragement,
Kerri
