Ducks

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted
    and saves those who are crushed in spirit.                                                                         Psalm 34:18

Ducks. Now, how can you not like a duck? They are so endearing as they waddle around! On my walk yesterday, I was going around a nearby lake when I saw several ducks plop into the water. As they descended from the shore, I noticed that they did not leave a ripple on top of the water. They glided smoothly along, headed behind their mother, I think. It struck me that beneath the water, there was some furious paddling going on to propel them along. Yet, from where I stood, the water was calm and almost still.

Then I thought of some people who are “paddling furiously” beneath the surface, dealing with problems that others are unaware of. They maintain a calm exterior, giving the appearance of serenity. But underneath, they are masking pain and stress that they may not ever display.

Just a reminder for us all. Many people are silently struggling with pain that they may never announce. Consider this the next time you are dealing with someone. Give them grace, for they may need it more than you know.

Prayer: Lord, give us the grace to give grace to others, Amen