Tonight we joined the masses for an evening stroll along the shores of the Red Sea. The sun had disappeared by the time we arrived. The sound of jingling bells met us as we alighted from our cab. Small donkeys and horses decked out in ornate saddles, were being used like amusement rides for children. As it is the end of our "week-middle", families were out in droves as were others taking in the sea air. It was interesting to see children flying kites, riding horses and playing chase, all in the dark. Groups of men lounged on rugs they had thrown down to keep from getting dirty. Some brought tables and chairs for their picnic, others rugs and cushions. Their version of a boardwalk was a bricked path along the shore. Ice~cream vans were parked along the curb while venders walked up and down selling glow in the dark 'flying saucers'. As a foreigner one is constantly scrutinized. For new comers it is unnerving. For me, it's more the course of human nature. We are a mere curiosity. Approaching the beach, we happened on a few of the faithful on prayer rugs kneeling toward Mecca. Just as in any religion, there are the few faithful and the few who do things for the motions, the traditions. There is a rhythm to belief that is easy to move to without thought and effort. Do I move in relationship to my God in the same way? Is it an unconscious rhythm or am I truly, consciously, pouring myself into knowing Him. Do I take that precious gift of intimacy with the Creator for granted? Is it a mindless kneeling in a 'direction', or a true offering, sweet in it's painful surrender to Him? I daren't look too closely.
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