A few years ago at Christian Associates‘ staff conference our president, Linus Morris, showed a great clip from the movie Riding Giants. It’s a movie about the history and progression of big wave surfing. I’ve never been much of a surfer (never being the key word), but I am still fascinated by it and respect the guys and girls who do…I mostly respect the people in this video because they are pioneers, they lived on the edge and pushed the limits of what they knew was possible.
I went to the local library here in Littleton and they had it…for free (my favorite four letter word)…I have been wanting to see the whole movie for the past two years and finally got my chance. I got home and watched it one night…twice. I can’t believe how many analogies there are in the movie to missional work and spiritual development. Here’s my favorite…
There was a kid named Jeff Clark who lived in Half Moon Bay, CA…he was a freshman in high-school when, from a lookout point where he and his buddies would hang out, he could see a surf break out beyond the point that looked amazing. He went out to check it out and it was even bigger than he thought. This spot would later become the world famous break called Mavericks. At 14 years old he paddled 45 minutes out to the line-up to catch a wave that broke into treacherous rocks, in freezing cold Pacific Ocean water, without the permission or knowledge of his parents! He rode in this spot for 15 years before anybody would go out with him…15 years of riding a now world-famous break…alone…He rode in these insane and deadly conditions just for the love of surfing.
Finally, a couple of other guys paddled out into Mavericks and the movement began. As the spot got more and more famous, more and more riders came out from around the world…almost overnight. And he wasn’t protective, or mad that his spot had become crowded. Instead, he said he was like a proud parent and welcomed the new surfers.
You should check out the video and think in terms of analogy…and just enjoy the beauty and power of the ocean and those who play (survive) in it.
Oh man……….I never leave home without my camera, I’m a true addict. LOL! I’m also a scrapbooker, I love to record memories along with pictures. I’ll keep you in my prayers, pray that you have strength to deal with no camera in hand.
If things get real bad for you, I’m sure some of your friends will have cameras. Have a safe trip!