Steadfast Beacon

As we boarded the boat for the sunset cruise around the Maine islands, I knew it would be a spectacular evening. The air was filled with the enticing aromas of grilled food and the harmonies of acoustic guitars from the Old Port eateries.
We were playing local tourists that day, doing the things we always intended to do over the years. Jim and I raced to the back of the boat, hoping to get seats with an unobstructed view of the lighthouses.

Leaving Portland Harbor, we were greeted by two seals, playing like black lab pups in the water. The lights of the city had just come on, and sparkled like diamonds from a distance.

We sat side by side in a comfortable silence, taking in the magnificence of the craggy shoreline dotted with white Adirondack chairs. Everyone aboard waved to those lucky enough to have front row seats to the Atlantic.

The first of six lighthouses, Portland Breakwater Light, came into view. I had seen each of the beacons from the land, but there was something so calming from this aspect. Each one, as we passed by seemed to say “You’re safe, stay the course.”
One in particular intrigued me – Spring Point Ledge Light. To mariners properly positioned in the channel, the light showed white. Outside of the fairway, the light was red, providing clear, unmistakable guidance, even in the worst weather.

How dangerous and unpredictable sailing must have been before these guideposts were built. And by contrast, how assuasive it had to be for those aboard to see the steadfast lights.

It was the same reassured, confident look I get from my children as our eyes meet. Whether it’s from the stage of their elementary school Christmas concert, or peering out the window of the school bus in the morning, they’re just making sure I’m there. They’re looking for that light in my eyes telling them, “You’re safe. Stay the course. I’ll be here for you.”

This T-Day, create that safe harbor for someone in your life. Let them know you’ll be a steadfast beacon they can count on when times get tough.

Our monthly Together We Can Change The World Day is about joining together to make a conscious difference.
Please visit our website at www.togetherwecanchangetheworldday.com and scroll across available service projects and add your own.