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DAVID BENTLEY'S WEEKLY COLUMN

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Following the Flow

We receive an abundance of precipitation in the Pacific Northwest. Individual drops of water, from falling rain or melting snow, hit the earth and begin to maneuver through unknown terrain. As these independent drops move along and encounter many unexpected obstacles, they seem to have an intuitive sense about how to proceed.

Some drops of water get absorbed into receptive soil while others are resisted by hardened clay and move on. Rocks, trees, and other large objects can block a pathway, forcing the drops to search for another route around them. Nonetheless, they continue their prescient journey, gathering strength and support from other drops of water which are following the same path.

Soon these seemingly insignificant droplets join together to form a trickle. As they travel collectively, they nurture the earth for future growth by leaving life-giving moisture and nutrients along the way. Eventually various trickles combine to become a brook, laughingly tumbling over rocks and bringing the babbling music of water to their surroundings.

These streams of brooks and creeks gradually become rivers, increasing in size and force. Former obstacles give way to powerful currents as small rivers join with other rivers and continue to grow. Soon a mighty river is formed and becomes a source of food, turmoil, danger and peace. Capable of moving both mountains and hearts, this river draws on all the lessons learned by each of its individual drops along an uncertain and often frightening journey.

Whether moving angrily and overflowing its banks or meandering peacefully through the countryside, the river continues on its quest for an ocean more powerful than itself.

  • Are you on a quest for something more powerful than yourself?

  • What pathways have you taken to get to where you are now?

  • What important lessons have you learned along the way?

  • How will you use this information along with the wisdom, strength, and support of others to complete your journey?

© 2003 David Bentley

David Bentley, M.Ed. & Personal Coach, coaches clients through the game of life, helping them find balance, clarity of direction, and purpose in an ever-changing world.

You may contact him at 360.378.8436

by e-mail at david@coachbentley.com

or visit his Web site: www.coachbentley.com

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