The Whole River From Beginning to End Is One River
This river is called Milton. Like a little spring from Mother Earth, that’s how I began. God created the Earth and God created me. The first part of my journey, I was barely a trickle, just enough water to give to a beautiful mountain wildflower or for a creature to enjoy a refreshing drink. In my helpless state, I tumbled merrily along, experiencing every sense, tender, impressionable and alive!
I consider how the river is always changing, yet it is still the same river--just as I’m adapting and always aging, yet the same person. Springs, streams, and small rivers are what flow into me, forming me and making me what I am--clean, life-giving or otherwise. Sometimes a landslide or something as extreme as a volcano happens, and the river pools awhile. But perhaps then a lake can form for the fish and all creation to enjoy! My course may drastically change, but the river keeps moving, always seeking a better place.
What at one time might have been an obstacle or an obstruction, could in high water become an island, a place of beauty and refuge! In nature, mother animals will swim a river to reach an island to give their little ones a fragment of protection, possibly staying for several weeks nursing their young. In this same way, someone that is really close to us may become part of us like the river, and we can encircle them with our love. We give each other life and unique character. Our relationships sometimes change, just like a river. Sometimes high water will cut a little different channel, but we are the same river. That's one of the things that makes life so delightful. I can enjoy the security of being on your island as well.
As I flow through seasons of drought and rainy seasons of flooding, I’m wondering if the topsoil and silt I pass on to creation is fertile, or are there toxins from pulp mills, fuel spills, acid rain, and radioactive rocks? God created an amazing ecosystem where water flowing over turbulent places oxygenates it and helps reduce harmful bacteria. As my river flows, cascading, then resting in calm, I hope it grows in strength and life-giving qualities to nurture those I come in contact with. Maybe the River Milton can bring a drink of water to a thirsty creature. Or float a canoe connecting communities, like the early days.
When my river gives up its name, maybe the sun shining on the ocean surface will evaporate some of the water and bring rain to places the river cannot reach, perhaps even giving someone joy and hope for tomorrow.