Recently, I had the opportunity to go on a family vacation to the Gulf of Florida. As I walked along the beach, I saw remnants of sea life. There was a variety of shells, some were whole and others were just fragments. There were pieces of wood and sea grass, accompanying the other treasures. In the water, we found live creatures: sting rays, sand dollars, and shells with their owners still living within them.
One afternoon, my wife found two different starfish. One was the typical five-armed starfish, and the other was an eight-armed starfish. It was amazing watching them move and adapt to the environment.
Wikipedia informs us, “Starfish (also known as sea stars) are able to regenerate lost arms. A new sea star may be regenerated from a single arm or ray, attached to a portion of the central disk.” I think it is amazing that a starfish has this ability to heal itself from injury or trauma.
Similar to starfish, we have the ability within ourselves to heal. At this time, humans may not have discovered the technology to grow back limbs, but we do have the ability to help our bodies heal physically, and be at optimum health. We also have the ability to heal from emotional and spiritual injuries. God has given us this incredible ability to heal, and He desires us to be whole. Being aware of the pain, having a willingness to ask for help, and being open to the healing process, gives us an opportunity for restoration and wholeness. Similar to God’s creatures in the sea, which there are many different types, and as many varieties within each type, humans are equally as complex, and the wounds and experiences as diverse. But, God who is faithful and just, promises to be with us. He loves us and all the creatures, but loves his children even more.
Will you choose to believe in the healing power of your own body?
Sincerely,
Kevin Polky, CADC, LCSW