EDDIES
Let’s take a closer look at some of the currents that happen as a result of obstructions in a river or stream. An eddy is the name of an area of current that is flowing in the opposite direction of the main river current. Take a look at the picture above and notice the rock in the water. Just downstream of that rock is an area that appears calm and has white lines on each side. The calm area behind the rock is the eddy, and the white lines are called eddy lines. They are the boundaries between the downstream current and the upstream current of the eddy. Eddies vary in size and current strength. They are caused by an obstruction that changes the direction of the current, causing a spinning motion. Whitewater boaters know eddies to be their friends because they can provide places of rest and safety. While navigating a long rapid, eddies are also used as spots from which the next section of the river can be viewed and a route planned out for safely going on down stream.
So with our lives: We can get upset and frustrated when our plans get rearranged. But often it provides us with opportunities to take a breather and realign our priorities. As we grow in understanding and desire for spiritual guidance, our discernment increases for knowing when to take advantage of those opportunities. Being still and silent, answers we have been searching for often present themselves unexpectedly.
EDDY LINES
Eddy lines are the boundaries between the downstream current of the river and the upstream current of the eddy. An eddy line must be crossed in order to get into an eddy. Where the current is not very strong, crossing an eddy line is not difficult. But when the current is swift, an eddy line can be difficult to cross and gain access to the eddy. To enter an eddy in a swiftly flowing river, your angle of entry must be correct, and you must have adequate momentum to get across the line. Without both of these things, you are destined to “spinout” and remain in the downstream current.
So with our lives: Occasionally it is easy and natural to take advantage of times of rest, but often we must plan and prepare for them. (The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. Mark 2:27) It is not always easy to enter into a restful place, but if we are attentive we can spot the areas that are provided and set our angle of entry. In other words, work to make the time. Having the intention of where and when we are going to stop for rest is a key ingredient in achieving that rest, just like the importance of preparing to cross a turbulent eddy line. Without the set intention, it is easy to get swept downstream in the turbulence of life. Living your life intentionally is very similar to paddling a boat, riding a bicycle or driving a car. Look where you want to go, not where you don’t want to go. (Phil 3: 13-14)
