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Don’t let a snake spoil your joy

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Florida is full of natural springs that are crystal clear. Here I am at Kelly Park in Apopka, Florida, about 30 miles north of Orlando. Operated by the state, this spring is 72 degrees year-round with a ¾ mile natural lazy river. Most people visit a spring that is either run by the state or privately owned. It’s not safe to venture out alone since one may run into an alligator or a snake.

 

Most people tube while I chose to swim. Being an avid swimmer, especially in natural water, I was on a natural high! The cool water was so clear and refreshing. We arrived when it first opened, so I was the first one in the water. About halfway down the spring, I saw something in the water. I paused. “I hope it’s not an alligator!”

 

Then I remembered the ranger telling me that alligators were rare here because they don’t like the noise people make. As the day progresses with more people, there is more noise. Although I enjoy silence, I was grateful for the noise! 

 

So, I didn’t think it was an alligator. I knew snakes were there, but didn’t want fear to hold me back. I swam slowly, keeping my eye on this creature in the water. To my surprise, it was a family of otters! How exciting to swim with them, even just for a few moments. One snarled at me as it was exiting the water. I simply said, “Hello, I am harmless.”

 

The spiritual lesson for me is to be wise and cautious with people.

 

Several are like snakes. They don’t intend to bite me. They are protecting themselves. However, if they are triggered by fear, they could lash out at me. 

 

A few are like alligators. There was a relative who was very manipulative and talked behind my back. After a blow-up one day, we became estranged. My psychologist bluntly said, “You knew they were an alligator. So why did you stay in the relationship?”  I replied, “I did love this person and was hoping things were going to change.”

 

I am grateful for the people who are precious like the otters and those who bring pleasure like the natural springs.

 

After a time of grief and letting go, I pray for God’s best for the alligators in my life.

 

Then I go swim in a different spring.


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