If kneeling is a form of prayer, do I get extra credit for taking this sacred posture in the Atlantic on a 20 degree Fahrenheit morning? Ha!
My 30 year-old and their partner thought it would be fun to celebrate the new year by plunging into the ocean in rural Nova Scotia. I, too, was enthused about this idea until I realized that it didn’t include a sauna.
We approached the icy, slushy water, took a quick “before” photo, then peeled away the layers, down to our swimsuits. One young adult was in and under! I crept in. Their partner was in and under! I crept some more. They were both out! I lowered myself to my knees, used my hands (a bad idea!) to splash my face and cover my head, and knew that I was at my limit! My hands were absolutely frozen. As I conceded, I heard, “that’s okay, Mom!”
I ran back to the shore, fumbled to cover myself and realized that my hands weren’t working. As I stared in horror at their stiffness, I was asked, “Mom, should we take you directly to the ER?” I calmly responded, “Nah. I think they will thaw.”
The heat of the car, my husband’s toasty hands (he was along to witness, document and support), followed by a hot shower back at the house, and I felt good! More than good. I felt energized! It was time to celebrate with a Mama Burger and an A&W root beer! (A Canadian tradition for our family!)
Would I attempt this again? For sure! Of course, a pair of gloves would help, and I need to work on my speed. Maybe we could try it in the summer months? Pretty please!
Today, for me, “prayer” is about connecting with the mysterious energy in me, the mysterious energy in others, and the mysterious energy in the great outdoors! If it was about getting credit, my companions deserve it for their brave plunges and for taking me on this crazy adventure!
What is prayer for you these days?
With great joy,
Bridget
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