Have you ever seen a pied-billed grebe in action? Whether it’s sinking into the water to go hunting or attempt to hide from you, this part bird part submarine is certainly a sight to behold! It was a bit tricky to photograph this little fella; sometimes, it would only leave part of its head sticking out of the water as it swims away. It is a master of its own buoyancy, quickly squeezing out air trapped in its feathers and internal sacs so it can effortlessly sink into the water with speed.
Speaking of buoyancy: did you know the other meaning of the word?
I may have come across this other definition during my high school years but that was way too long ago. It was great to be reminded that it also means:
- lightness or resilience of spirit; cheerfulness (from dictionary.com)
- the ability of someone or something to continue to be happy, strong, etc., through difficult times (from merriam-webster.com)
This little pied-billed grebe appeared to be happily swimming and using its talents to hunt and feed in his own habitat–a habitat that has once been abused by humans for many years. Now a popular birding site, many birds find sanctuary at the Lake Apopka North Shore Wildlife Drive. Many birds, including rare ones, can be found over here at different times of the year–a clear testimony that God continues to provide for the “fowls of the air” despite the damage to their habitat.
If God can provide for this pied-billed grebe, He most certainly can and will provide for us. It even says so in Scripture!
Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?
Matthew 6:25-26 KJV
This pied-billed grebe reminded me today that God can enable me to be buoyant despite the challenges of life.
Let’s apply the other meaning of buoyant in this situation…
By God’s grace, we too can continue to be resilient and cheerful… happy and strong… through difficult times.
Dear Friend, how buoyant are you today?
Take action: Do you feel as if you’re sinking in despair and losing hope? Find hope in God today! This page shows you how to get started.
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