Empath Health Blog, Jim Andrews

Suncoast Hospice Director of Spiritual Care Jim Andrews

Years ago, my family and I were in a fairly small boat off the coast of Ireland headed for the Skelligs – a grouping of small islands with rock formations that rise majestically out of the sea. One of the islands, Skellig Michael, was the site of a monastery made famous recently when it appeared in the movie Star Wars: The Last Jedi. We had hopes of climbing those incredible stone steps carved out of the side of the mountain all those years ago and visiting the monastery there. But the seas were too rough. We weren’t able to dock and disembark at the island. So rough, as a matter of fact, that people were getting seasick. As the waves grew bigger and tossed our little boat around, the crew advised everyone to look at the horizon.

You see, when you look at the horizon you are fixing your gaze on something that is unmoving and stable. It helps to calm the nerves and manage nausea. Sometimes our lives can feel like we are in a small boat being tossed about on the waves. What is our horizon? What do we look to for that source of stability in the midst of the storm that calms our nerves and sees us through?

When we experience those inevitable storms of life, may we have our lives grounded on a firm foundation and our eyes fixed on our sure and steady source of comfort.

Have a great week, everyone!
Jim