Divine Aloha - Soon to be released

The second devotional in a three-book Embracing God series is wrapping up now and hopefully will be in the pipeline for the publisher in a matter of days. Like the last book, it has been a personal spiritual journey, offering images of God's beautiful creation that serve as a springboard into daily devotionals for spiritual growth. But unlike Sacred Creation, Divine Aloha reaches out into uncharted places. Prayer moments as well as five minute faith practices have been added.

Here is an excerpt from the entry "Soul Surfing":

"In many ways, surfing imitates life. There are long periods of expectation and waiting, juxtaposed with moments of exhilaration. Not that I am any kind of an authority on the sport. Far from it. Having only surfed twice in my life, and only recently at that, I would be known in the surfing world as an old Betty – a very inexperienced female surfer who is, in a manner of speaking, no spring chicken.

Nevertheless, my surfing experiences helped me gain new insights, not only about the sport, but in meeting new challenges. It turns out, surfing is not just a physical test of balance and strength, it is also emotionally demanding. Endeavoring to harness the power of the ocean, to catch and ride a rushing wave, engages the full spectrum of feelings, and requires one hundred percent commitment. Especially for someone like me, who is, you know, an old Betty.

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First comes anticipation, when scanning the horizon for a promising swell. Then restlessness follows during prolonged periods of waiting for the perfect wave. You wonder, will it ever come? As an imposing wall of water advances, fear is confronted. You tell yourself, I think I can handle this one. But all too often, disappointment dampens when the ride begins then abruptly ends in a humbling splashdown. Nevertheless, when conditions are right - wave height, timing, and positioning - a portal to bliss is offered. In the rushing of water, body and soul rise together and ride the crest in victory to the shore.

You rule over the surging sea; when its waves mount up, you still them.

Psalm 89:9

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Prayer Moment ~ Heavenly Father, empower me with the strength and courage to get back up and try again, each time I fall. Sustain my hope and fix my eyes on You.

Faith Practice ~ ~ Create a moment of stillness. With closed eyes, imagine yourself in the ocean, bobbing weightless on your back, surrounding by the refreshing coolness of gently rolling swells. While in this state of mindfulness, practice the relaxation breath (Inhale four counts in through nose and exhale four counts out through mouth. Repeat 10 times. Give God gratitude for this moment.