Small and Simple Things

In the summertime, children are drawn to water like moths are to light. The creek by the lodge we stayed in last week was no exception. It was probably the result of snow runoff, punctuated by little waterfalls here and there, running swiftly down the mountainside.  A part of it crossed the path we followed on our hike on Saturday. It seemed treacherous to cross the first time, and most of us ended up with wet shoes, wet feet, or more, depending on our ability to scurry across the little "bridge" made up of two of slick logs. The best "creek adventure," though, involved full-on playing in the water as well as a mini-project to make this creek crossing slightly less treacherous.  With six or eight of the kids, Gpa diverted the water in some places and removed debris in other places. A small dam was built above where the water wasn't wanted, and a larger dam was removed from the water's natural path. Stepping stones replaced the logs for easy crossing. When we were finished, some were covered in mud, others looked like they had barely touched the water, but all had had fun.

On the outside, it might have appeared that we were simply playing in the water: squealing about how its frigid temperatures made our feet numb; squishing our toes in the mud and letting the creek wash them clean again; picking up interesting rocks, keeping some and using others for a dam; scrambling after runaway flip flops; and getting generally muddy and wet. A deeper analysis, however, reveals some interesting ideas: relationships were built along with a creek crossing, allowing love to flow more easily ... scriptures were taught, as we discovered a real-life answer to the question "How long can rolling waters remain impure?" ... memories were made, unrestrained by the usual requirements of the day (keep clean and dry so mom doesn't have to do laundry) ... and family drew closer together because of a small and simple activity.

"Now ye may suppose that this is foolishness in me; but behold I say unto you, that by small and simple things are great things brought to pass; and small means in many instances doth confound the wise." (Alma 37:6)