Frustrated with storms?
Ever been surprised by storms when outdoors? A judicious windsurfer removes himself from the thunderstorm before the downdraft/gust fronts, micro down burst arrives. Such winds are unpredictable, strong, and can lead to injuries/damage to equipment. The first clap of thunder is enough to herald my rapid retreat!
I assess weather conditions prior to heading outdoors. Apps I use such as Windfinder indicates the wind (speed, direction, gusts) and My Lightning warns me whenever lighting strikes miles away. In Southeastern North America, the storms rapidly develop. I avoid being caught out in the open especially on top of a hill, near trees, or under power lines. Since this is the terrain for the sport, awareness is critical to safety.
Canva Pro Stock Image
At times, life is a stormy day. The clouds build in and the wind picks up. Then you hear the rumble of thunder coming your way. Recently, I was outdoors doing what I enjoy until the sky began to grow dark and the thunder began to roar. Prudence told me to pack up the sail and leave the high ground before the lighting got close. Thankfully, I had enough time to get the sail stowed away and get a few pictures taken before the storm arrived. Perhaps God had something better for me? But I had to look up to see it!
Author captured image
Can you see the small rainbow above? This image was captured on a mostly sunny day! The small cloud (virga cloud) was releasing water droplets that were evaporating before hitting the ground, but not before making a beautiful bow.
Light in the Clouds
God’s rays are a type of light ray ( Crepuscular rays) that occurs when the sun’s angle interacts with clouds. These rays change appearance rapidly as the wind moves the cloud(s) which changes the angle of light. To photograph one requires speed as the image may only last for a few seconds before the cloud changes the angle of light. If you notice, many of my images that I use incorporates light, clouds, ocean, etc.
Here’s a link to some photos captured
I do this on purpose! I choose each image to remind you of God’s light and His love. My desire is to encourage and uplift you with reminders of God! As God encourages me in my moments, so I seek to encourage others.
A.I. image of man facing storm
Dark Valley Season
Recently, I have been walking through a dark valley in my life. When the storms arrived, I was frustrated that I would have to go back indoors. Being outside, windsurfing, riding my board is one of the few things that I enjoy doing. But God had something else in mind for me.
Do you ever lose focus on God? At times I get overly focused and concerned about the storms that I forget that God’s presence is with me. God promises us in His Word that He will never leave nor forsake us. For a detailed explanation,
I, like Peter walking on the water, see the wind and waves instead of focusing on Christ and then sink into dark depths of doubt. Writing articles and working to encourage others doesn’t make me immune to the difficulties of life.
Finding Balance
Loneliness, uncertainty, and past failures are heavy weights that seek to pull me back. Here’s a free lesson about mountain boarding and windsurfing! Windsurfing is mostly about balance! It’s vital that the force of the wind is transferred to your motion and that you are able to stay balanced. If not then the ground greets you! I have to be mindful about staying “balanced.” Each sail requires different techniques. Wind from different directions (North vrs South) dictates what course I take. Various wind speeds have different effects. Here’s a short reel of me riding the wind downhill.
Why would I choose such a challenging exercise? I like a challenge and to be inventive. It’s also fun to teach others how to do it. Nothing gives me more joy than when someone asks me for a chance to ride and they have a good time! Simple joys are a powerful antidote to the dark valleys of uncertainty.
Words of Grace & Hope 