News of another drowning in the Temperance River is bound to get one’s attention… On the 4th of July, while enjoying the annual holiday festivities in Tofte, we heard the sirens and saw the rescue vehicles. It wasn’t long before confirmation came: yes, a man had drowned while swimming in the Temperance.
It’s a little unnerving… I myself had been wading in the Temperance on the same afternoon, along with my young nephew and some other children. It had all seemed so innocent as we cooled off on a hot summer day, enjoying the splashing of the river, the current’s tug, the glint of sunlight off the water. Little did we know that just a short distance downstream, the river was about to take a deadly toll.
Our family moved to the North Shore just a year ago, in July of 2008. Thrilled by the natural beauty of the area, we were eager to hike the nearby trails, especially along the Temperance River, which is close to our home. We walked the trails and, on hot days, we swam as well. My husband and kids enjoyed jumping off the cliffs into the river. Thankfully, some of the locals warned us that the river could be dangerous if one wasn’t careful. The Temperance River, like many of the rivers along the North Shore, has amazing natural beauty and attractive swimming holes but it also has hidden currents and dangerous gorges that, as we have learned, can be deadly. One has to know where and when one can swim.
The dual nature of the Temperance River provides a fairly apt metaphor for other aspects of life: the world we live in provides many resources, activities and gifts that, when used with wisdom and care, offer great enjoyment and delight. Conversely, when used inappropriately, all kinds of sorrow and trouble can result.
When it comes to finding a safe place to swim along the North Shore, I like to check with long-time residents of the North Shore or consult one of the guidebooks for the area. When it comes to life, I find that mature, experienced mentors are very helpful. As for written guidance, I turn to the Bible. When I read the stories of ancient peoples and their interactions with God, I’m amazed as I learn about God’s character, especially his love and compassion. And I find that the stories of the Bible ring true as they describe the strengths and foibles of human beings. The wisdom and guidance that I find in the written word of God are invaluable as I negotiate the currents and eddies of life.
Once each month, a guest columnist will offer Spiritual Reflections. This week’s contributor is Pastor Deborah Lunde, who has served as pastor of Zoar Lutheran Church in Tofte and Zion Lutheran Church in Finland since July of 2008.
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