Feeling Alone
- WSL / ANTOINE JUSTES
Before going on a long flight to a perfect right-point break, I wanted to catch a few waves. I was so busy packing and getting all my stuff together the previous night that I didn't have time to check the local forecast. I was so busy frothing over the waves, I was heading to, that I didn't even look at the wind and weather at my local spot.
I did what I do most mornings. I got up early, did my morning routine and headed down for a quick surf. I pulled into the parking lot. The south wind was blowing. It was chilly and a bit gloomy. The waves were below par and the tide was extremely low. It was super early, and I only had 45 minutes. So, I put on my cold wet wetsuit on for the last time this week (since I would be in warm water the next day).
I ran down the beach and to my surprise there wasn’t anyone out yet. I was shocked. With my home spot being Huntington Beach (HB) Pier, in the last 20 years, I can count on one hand the number of times I have surfed by myself at the HB Pier.
I paddled out and a little bit of fear crept in. I am rarely alone when I surf. The thoughts of how big the ocean is and the size of the local great white sharks swimming in the area, raced through my mind. I tried to stay busy and catch as many waves as possible. I didn't want to think about the scary thoughts of getting eaten by a shark and nobody being around to see it happen.
As the bad waves seemed to stop coming, I just sat there waiting for the next set. I became overwhelmed with the Holy Spirit’s presence. Although I felt alone and didn't see another surfer in the water for miles, I was completely overjoyed to be reminded that I was not actually alone at all. God sent the Holy Spirit to be with me. I found myself in a completely changed headspace. The joy of the Lord filled my mind, and I couldn't stop thanking God for everything He has blessed me with.
I am not alone at all. I am blessed to have the Holy Spirit with me everywhere I go.
We read in John 14:17b, “But you know him [The Holy Spirit], for he lives with you and will be in you.” Acts 2 describes how the Holy Spirit came at Pentecost. And, Acts 2:18b says, “I will pour out my Spirit in those days…”
So, you see we are never alone.
At times we might feel alone. Fear might set in. Darkness may creep in and try to scare us. But, we must remember that we are not alone because we have the Holy Spirit with us.