March 21, 2011

Footprints In The Sand.

"During your times of trial and suffering, when you see only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you..."

This Saturday I took a walk on a nearby beach.
It was a glorious spring day and I truly enjoyed the proximity to the vernal sea.
I find so much solace in the open waters, as I inhale the scent of the salty air and listen to the sound of the soft waves, while my eyes trace the misty sea surface where it meets the horizon.

As the sun caressed my face and I walked along the shore, at one point I turned back to see my own footsteps in the supple surf and got reminded of the infinitely enlightening prose about footprints in the sand. I am sure we all know it only too well.
I recall stumbling upon those inspirational words as a young girl and I wrote them down, to revisit them often in my life, when I felt lonely and troubled.

How much they thus resonate with me today, when I feel that I carry so much responsibility on my shoulders and I feel at times so alone and abandoned.
These days my thinking is preoccupied with contemplation that questions life itself. The whole meaning of it and my own existence here as well. My entire being is consumed by a spectra of contradictory emotions. Anything from awe, happiness and incredible joy to sadness, fear and anguish. Having made a decision, one that I do not doubt for a second, yet one that seems to effect so deeply and profoundly someone so very dear to me, is weighing heavy on my heart.

I find I am unable these days to concentrate my thoughts into one single meaningful post, as they are so scattered in so many directions. It is as if suddenly a door has been opened, one that I though was forever closed for me. And as I stepped through the opened doorway, I suddenly knew that my future took a new turn as a defining moment reshaped my life.

Looking upon my footsteps in the soft sand while I took that tranquil walk, I nevertheless came to a true revelation.

Even though I feel lonely, I am not alone.

The recent events have indeed showed me who my true friends are - and I realized that true friendship often comes from the most unexpected places. It also reinforced the importance of my family, that close knit unit, those incredible people who I have known my whole life and who have always been my shelter and my inspiration.

Ultimately, there is this enchanted force, the one that indeed carries me currently through the storm.
Maybe it is divine, maybe it is spiritual. Or yet again, perhaps it is my own inner strength - I truly do not know.
Still, when I looked upon those footsteps, I knew in no uncertain terms that I was no longer alone.
Nor would I ever be.

46 comments:

Pranavam Ravikumar said...

Superb Zuzana...!

Rajesh said...

Beautifully written. I liked "Even though I feel lonely, I am not alone."

Elizabeth said...

What a beautiful post filled with so much love and meaning.

Have a lovely start of your week and I'll talk to you soon.

Kath said...

and don't forget that there are many people who have never met you, but who care for you too xx

Matty said...

I read the footprints story a long time ago. It's message is simple, yet profound. No matter how difficult the journey, we are not alone. Sometimes we forget, but it sounds like you haven't.

Mimi said...

Yes, Zuzana, as Kath says, we care for you.
I've always loved that prose/poem, and I love it even more in this post of yours, where you relate it to a real life.
I too find myself pondering on the meaning of life, and my part in it. Haven't got any answers, but nice to know we're in the same boat!
Have a good week, mimi xx

Elisabeth said...

It is a lonely footstep here, Zuzana but as you say you must follow your well thought through decisions however burdensome.

In the end hopefully it will all work out and you may no longer feel quite so burdened - hopefully.

tony said...

Those Look Like Strong & Firm Footsteps To Me. X

A Bit of the Blarney said...

Thank you for this beautiful reflection! Cathy

G said...

I'm so glad you're not alone, dear Zuzana, and I love the photographs.

Unknown said...

Beautiful reflections and personal conclusions, Zuzana!

Brian Miller said...

sounds like you had a beautiful day...i know that feeling of being alone, yet not...but i am excited for the direction you have chosen, whatever it may be, and pray that you enjoy the journey, and be blessed with many that would walk by your side...

Jill from Killeny Glen said...

Zuzana....I love the way you think and contemplate. This is a lovely post full of TRUTH. As indeed we are NOT alone...and I take great comfort in that even when we feel as if we are.

You are stepping out and have great things ahead of you!

I envy your walks on the beach! So glad you were able to enjoy the warming breezes.

Auntie sezzzzzz... said...

Your decision sounds hard, but it also sounds as if it has come from your "gut feelings." So therefore, hard though it is, it will be the correct one.

Wishing you well, with coming to terms with the effects of this decision... On you, on another person, or on other persons.

We don't know your life. But I [and all your readers] certainly wish you well with everything, in your life.

Gentle hugs, and ♥...

Claus said...

Interesting how wave after wave of profound thinking comes when spending time with oneself, in some of the most inspiring places, right? I believe it is during these moments of enlightening that one comes to meet a "me" that one didn't know there was within. One learns to appreciate the little things, to understand some other things, and to love, in the end, who you have become.
...I'm still envious of you being so close to the dear ocean...it is one of my favorite things! :o)
have a great Monday my friend!

Amanda Summer said...

zuzana,

thank you for sharing this deeply personal experience.

in my humble opinion, i believe that "enchanted force" of which you speak is both divinely spiritual and your own inner strength - they are one and the same and formidable.

blessings to you as you pass through this important transition in your life. and may you continue to know you are not alone♡

love and hugs,

amanda

p.s. i loved your previous post about the spring equinox. so cool that it coincided with the supermoon!

Bossy Betty said...

It is times like this that we may feel that our actions hold so much power, and yet, there is also something to believing that things will all work out the way they should. Often times we take on so much more than we need to. Just do what is in your heart and know that there is a bigger plan that is taking shape.

Sending you lots of love and support.

S. Susan Deborah said...

Zuzana, I hear you. The words you have mentioned have also comforted and sustained me many times. Zuzana, this post was quite a tender one from your heart. At this very moment, I send you wishes of warmth, love and peace. I can resonate with what you are saying: Only in times of trouble, we realise who are with us. You are safe and sound in the knowledge that there is always someone who takes care of you.

Big hugs, Zuzana.

Joy always,
Susan

swenglishexpat said...

Previous commentators have expressed many of my thoughts as well. You are not alone, stay strong.

Myrna R. said...

If good thoughts, and prayers are a way of keeping someone company, then I am with you too. I wish you the best.

Anonymous said...

So very thoughtful and touching... it is amazing how we can actually feel ourselves making decisions that will change our lives profoundly.

adrielleroyale said...

Beautiful...May God give you wisdom in all your decision making my friend and give you peace. And may you know in the very core of your being just what you have written here, that you are not alone and that you are so dearly loved... :)

A Lady's Life said...

I guess every one of us comes to a time in our lives where we reach this point and indeed it is very heavy on the heart. My heart has been heavy for a very long time but you learn to set it aside and move on for unless you can do that, you become disfunctional
I guess some would also call it carrying your cross.
When kids fight with their parents I used to tell them wait till you have the weight on your shoulders your Dad or Mom has to carry . Being young is simple but as you move on, the baggage becomes heavier and this is exactly because you are not alone anymore.
There are so many things that get entangled in your life.Responsibility, accountability,and or lack of. lol
And I too sit sometimes thinking and asking why?

Sharon Lovejoy said...

Dear and beautiful Zuzana,

You are questioning much as any deep thinker will question. I love how your mind works.

Sending a warm hug across the miles,

Sharon Lovejoy

Reading Tea Leaves said...

You are such a deep thinker dear Zuzana. Thank you for sharing such a deeply personal experience with us. Decisions can be so hard when they affect others. I feel for you dear friend but please take heart, you most definitely are not alone and are dearly loved.

Love and warmest hugs to you.

Jeanne
xox

I loved your previous post.

Dan said...

Zuzana, I know I've said this before but your writing is so beautiful, even when you are discussing difficult issues. Lovely thoughts on enchanted forces. I can understand your often scattered thoughts and feelings. I'd forgotten about Footprints, so thank you for the reminder.
I love your sensitive view on whatever you turn your thoughts to.
Dan
-x-

Ms.Chief loves wigwams! said...

Bless You Darling Soul, the path of enlightenment, the ascension = of value, of meaning, of purpose & sense of belonging; to know thine self & be true. Perception, we all interpret things differently. So I hope my ramblings & perspectives are welcomed. If I may respond to your beautiful expression. Remember we are each an integral part of each others growth. Dear Zuzana, please do consider the responsibility of the heart belongs to us all . . tis an organ of perception. Your choices are gifts, messengers of change that will activate much within the heart of your loved one & all who share your life & thats the way its meant to be if we utilise our choices. Please do not allow that to lay heavily on your heart but instead untether the mind, allow your vision to soar in trust, almost in celebration & truth - knowing when chaos graces our lives - changes bestow us & we have choice - we can choose wisdom or woe. We all learn much when things change, people leave, things happen . . as opposed to things staying the same. Maybe it is time for your loved one to awaken & move on & only you could awaken that within them. Sometimes, somethings don't work out the way planned. When in the midst & confusion, pain & troubles sometimes things seem as if they will never be the same again. Yet, sometimes life has its own plan, its own ways when often things work out ultimately much better then we could ever plan them to, work our better than we could've ever even dream of . . . hold on fast to even the most delicate thread which binds us all together in the great fabric of life. Just maybe, this is one of those times, and much goodness, in time, will blossom from the seeds of change planted now. Trust Dear Soul trust you are a cog in the wheel of evolving growth .. we're are all catalysts' to some, comforters & nurtures to others. As a parent do we consider "How can I protect my child & make her happy or how can I help teach her to keep herself safe & make herself happy" . .. do I make choices for her or do I teach her to make choices for herself trusting her own instinct & judgement.
Dear Lady, put down the excess baggage you carry of another's responsibility, rest your weary mind in the arms of authenticity - what belongs to who - allow the love & support you share to blossom, allow the love & care of others to soothe & nourish your needs. Trust there is no difference in the value of each lesson, whether the experience is good or bad, happy or sad . . still the value is beneficial.
You are lucky to have such shelter, such inspiration & friendship from true friends & family. Your life is a gift to share . . its what we can bring to each other which really counts, the difference we can make & your words Dear Zuzana . . make a difference, your actions .. your very being . . enjoy & surrender to the flows of uncertainty, of the unexpected & the never knowing :) tis where the magic resides x Imagine all your loved one can learn from your changes . . what gifts will be awakened within the person who is very dear to you . . maybe just maybe you have to encourage such awakenings :) xXx Huge hugs

Julie Hibbard said...

SO wish you lived close enough to come over for a drink!! Thinking of you and feeling the same in many ways...I look forward to the day we meet!

Velvet Over Steel said...

You are one of the strongest, most independant woman I know, Zuzana, I had no idea that you were feeling alone and have so much on your mind and in your life. I'm very glad that you remembered that you're Not alone & as others have said.. we are hear for you too, even if we're not in the same country. Oh and I'm equally sure that you did make the4 right decision/choice for You! :-)

I also agree that your writing is very beautiful, Zuzana, very beautiful!!

Bless you my friend!!!
Much Love and Many Hugs,
Coreen xoxoxo

A Plain Observer said...

It is certainly one of my favorite prose. I always think about it in the last few miles of a marathon when I really need Jesus to carry me and finish it for me.
Your words resonate so much with me. The place where I am is it the place where I want to be, and knowing I am glad I am here and not where I have been...
Thank you for this beautiful post

Phivos Nicolaides said...

In Greek we say that "It's wrong to build on sand". And your footprints on the sand will disappear after a while. What remains forever is the good memories, good experiences and strong emotions, and I think you have a bit of all!

Anonymous said...

Beautiful and thoughtful, dearest Zuzana. You are never, never alone.
Hugs,
Zuzu

Christmas-etc... said...

What a lovely and truthful post...once again!
You know, the nicest thing I ever did for myself was to read the writings of the Church Fathers. (You can find them at www.ccel.org) So often today we are talked down to and that is where dissatisfaction often comes from. We are - you definitely are! - too smart for what is presented. With these men who lived so long ago however... there is no talking down.
Hope they might reach across the centuries and help you as they did me.
Blessings!
Ann

Regina said...

Wonderful and excellent post my friend. Yes its true we are not alone.
Enjoy your day.
xo

Unknown said...

magnificent post!! loved it.

SandyCarlson said...

To be sure you are not alone. I am thinking of what you said here about whether that inner force is spiritual or if it is your own inner strength. I believe all that is within us is spirit, and that is strength. We are body and we are spirit. A beautiful, bountiful magic.

Your lyrical prose has me thinking. Thank you.

Anonymous said...

We sometimes wonder how we are going to get through a challenging time, but it is by being "carried", when we can no longer walk on our own. I know in looking back, there are times I know I was carried. That is the only possible way I came through. So walk strong and rest your feet when you need help, because you "never walk alone".

Anonymous said...

Thats one of the great things about writing.
We can do what we like.
I enjoy your eclectic posts Zuzana

Colleen said...

Dear dear Zuzana, I didn't see this until today otherwise I would have commented far earlier.

Are you alright? You sound as though you are in a season of change and growth...both painful and beautifully rewarding. It can be so hard when we have to make decisions that bring another person pain, it can weigh so heavily on the heart and make us feel so burdened and lonely. I think you are so perceptive, in a way not many people are and you will grow through this knowing you have made the right choice.

Take care and my thoughts and prayers are with you.

Love Colleen

Ash said...

'Footprints in Sand' is one of my favorite poems. I remember reading it for the first time a few years ago and I couldnt stop crying. It was that beautiful!

You are never alone, dear Zuzana. You are always taken care of.

Slyde said...

you just brought a tear to my eye...

that is the bibal quote that i chose to put on my grandfather's mass card. i still miss him terribly.

Unknown said...

This was lovely...and so true. We never walk alone...it just feels like it sometimes...
Foot Prints in the Sand is one of my favorites too.
enjoy this day!
Deb

Margie said...

Dear Zuzana
So beautifully written!
I felt your sadness and also your joy!

Sounds like you are blessed with good friends!
That is a true treasure!

Thanks for sharing all that your heart is feeling!
I was touched!

May life always bless you with joy!

So nice to be here again at your beautiful blog!

Margie xx

Stickhorsecowgirls said...

Profound words, Suzanna!
Have had lots going on in the family lately--illness and surgery of eldest daughter, taking care of 4 grandchildren. Weariness has kept me from my routine, but I'm trying to catch up. Perhaps the super moon has stirred up the heavenlies!hmmm makes one wonder!
Love & blessings to you

Lynne said...

I admire how well you describe your feelings. I wish you well in all your decisions.

Zuzana said...

Pranavam (welcome), Rajesh, Elizabeth, Kath, Matty, Mimi, Elisabeth, tony, Cathy, BPG, Jane, Brian, Jill, Amelia, Claudia, Amanda, Betty, Susan, swenglishexpat, Myrna, ladyfi, adrielle, Lady, Sharon, Jeanne, Dan, P, Julie, Coreen, Myriam, Philip, Zuzu, Ann, Regina, Doreen, Sandy, LadyCat, Richard, Colleen, Ash, Slyde, Deborah, Margie, C or V and Lynne – thank you so much my dear friends for all these very kind, heartfelt and poignant comments.

Your care, love and support means a great deal to me, more then I can possibly express in words. I am so happy that this post resonated with all of you, for one reason or another. Whether it is because you recognize and can relate to the beautiful inspirational prose itself, or its meaning in your own life or the sentiments that I try to express here, in my own writing.

When one truly lives, things happen. Both wonderful and bad. As so many of you point out, when decisions are made with clean conscious and out of the goodness of our heart, all we can do is to take consolation in the belief that the long term consequences will show us that the decision was the right one.

My life is currently full of wonderful wonders and grave contemplations and I hope that my writing at least partly also reflect the happiness I feel.

Thank you all as always for taking the time to stop by and read even my more heavier and more candid posts. I appreciate your visits and kind words at all times.

Xoxo
Zuzana