The Beach
You walk the beach
The sun warms your forehead
A cool breeze caresses your face and ruffles your hair
Soft sand cushions your feet
You smell the sea and taste its salt
Hear the waves breaking and gulls calling
Rollers send long fingers up the beach
Sandpipers scurry to peck where the water recedes
You step over shells and seaweed
Walk inland where the tall grass grows
You follow a path through swaying grassland
Arrive at a large circular clearing
In the middle stands a man in a robe and sandals
You recognize Him
Gazing into His eyes you see tenderness
Acceptance in His quiet smile
You reach your hands out to Him
Gently He takes them in His
A golden light warms your arms and shoulders
Ascends your neck to the crown of your head
The all-knowing eye of your mind opens
The light runs down your spine, fills your lungs with peace
The knot of fear that restricts your breathing softens
The walls around your heart crumble and melt away
The tightness in your stomach relaxes
Your feet unwind and your toes uncurl
Your chest expands like a full balloon
You welcome Jesus into your open heart
He takes you into His
You dwell in Him and He in you
“Send the golden light everywhere you feel pain”
You locate each discomfort, each dis-ease
The Holy Dove alights on every cell
Your body glows as you breathe deeply
Tight muscles relax and your stomach uncoils
Suffering eases and departs
Pain surrenders to joy
Love conquers fear
Your heart has never been so large
Your body floats as you feel at peace
Jesus’ smile gives you courage
You ask Him a question
What do you want to know?
Ask Him now taking the time you need
Listen carefully to remember His answer
You thank Him and He smiles
“I am always here for you
“All you have to do is talk to me
“I will never neglect or abandon you”
You leave the circle and return to the path
Hope conquers your despair, faith your disbelief, wellness your dis-ease
You stroll the beach
It’s sunset
Layers of clouds paint the sky
Pink, orange, yellow, red
The water reflects the blaze
Sky and sea meld
Heaven and Earth are one
You see the light—you live the life—you sing the Hallelujah
© Doug Welpton, M.D.