Lindsay Howes.
First sickening shock, as icy as the chill of deep cold sea water ruthlessly biting against the skin. Air suckingly painful with every step forward, surrounding confusions of sea foam swirling faster with each inch of depth. The slow realisation of complete numbness, no way out in any direction - just deep cold grey.
There are but very few in at the same depth, alongside, but not able to reach your hand. There, but in at their own swirling depth.
Standing on the shore are many, many who stand and watch, they watch but they do not enter in, they cannot, for these depths are yours and yours alone. With mesmerising motion the waves draw you further and further in, your footing loosens with every threatening consuming wave. The higher pressure of the water compresses making it harder to breathe, the build up of pain brings uncontrollable symptoms as the waves roll in and out, day after day confusion, exhaustion, fear, sleeplessness, anxiety, heartache, sadness.
Threatening dark clouds gather over head, then rain, heavy rain pouring on top of the already overwhelming waves, layer upon layer upon layer.
There is only One who can be there in the deep cold grey. One who truly knows the depths. One who is fully able. One to whom you can look when another wave rolls over. One who keeps your head above. One to whom you can cling, One who does not stop the waves but One who is with you through them.
When you pass through the deep waters, I will be with you; Isaiah 43:2
Such a powerful piece of writing. Thank you.