This trip comes at nearly the time of our 20th anniversary (March 3 is about six weeks away), so in many ways this trip is a celebration. One of the most stunning visual memories of 1990 was the marine reserve at San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize where we snorkeled for the first time as newlyweds. It is a testament to the beauty of creation to observe such unparalleled design in nature.
Well, we did it again. In St. Lucia, snorkeling at the base of the Piton mountains at Jalousie beach we had a stunning, humbling underwater foray. There were schools of iridescent squid, which Dad points out can instantly propel either forward or back. A large faux "eye" wards off predators. How in the world would that have just "appeared"? A mauve fish laced with intricate hatchmarks is detailed in iridescent peacock blue along its outer edges including the tips of its tail and over both eyes, refracting light like crystals. Tube coral that change color from orange to lavender. Schools of dark violet fish, and long needle-nosed ones in various sizes and every color. Mom, Debra and I were both slightly stung by the tentacles of jellyfish, a very brief reminder that we are privileged visitors, but only visitors. It's a world that we were perhaps never naturally meant to see, but a sensory feast was awaiting anyone who would venture to try. It's a world that does not belong to us, but one we are allowed to borrow as long as we understand our responsibility for its well-being. A divine stewardship.
LESSON NINE: The more we learn about what Jehovah has skillfully crafted, the more accountable we feel to him for the care of our fellow earthly creatures. Taking the time to observe them, study them, and learn from them, enhances our respect for their Creator. And the more we actually think about the meaning of the incredible diversity in the living organisms around us, the more love we develop...for them, for each other, and for God who made us all.
Today, two J's have taught us that. Jehovah...and Jalousie beach.
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