Rivers travel through diverse terrains, cutting paths that vary in width and depth. There may be shallow, gentle sections that are crystal clear, and there can be deep, dark, and turbulent spans that move more quickly. Our lives similarly will vary between degrees of depth, bringing us our own challenges and rewards. Similar to the deep and shallow parts of rivers, the different stages, emotions, or experiences we encounter along our respective journeys shape us and equip us for later parts of the journey. These changing aspects make our lives more interesting and the relationships along the way more enriching.

The Shallows

The shallow parts of a river can symbolize the lighter, more carefree moments in our lives. These sections are often characterized by clear, calm waters that allow us to see the bottom. The shallower phases in our lives can be periods of clarity and simplicity, allowing us to see and understand our immediate future and creating a sense of stability and security. In the shallows, we encounter fewer obstacles and can move forward with ease. Our early years often resemble these shallow parts, filled with innocence and curiosity. Just as young rivers flow gently over smooth beds, our early life is generally marked by simplicity and a sense of seeing everything clearly. The challenges we face are often smaller and more manageable during this phase of life.

Shallow waters also glisten in the sunlight, reflecting joy and brightness. These moments in our lives might include times of leisure and contentment but also present opportunities to reflect. These are periods when life feels lighter, and we float effortlessly, enjoying the scenery around us without the weight of deeper concerns. Shallow waters are typically easier to navigate, much like the predictable routines that often define certain stages of our lives. During these times, we might follow established paths or routines, making decisions with relative ease. The transparency of the shallow water is relaxing, enabling us to recharge and recalibrate.

The Deep

The deep parts of a river symbolize the complex, more intense moments of our lives. These sections can be murky, turbulent waters that hide the riverbed from view, much like how the deeper phases of our lives might seem filled with uncertainty and complexity. As we age, we move into deeper waters, taking on more responsibilities and encountering more significant challenges. We also have more relationships, friendships, and experience to help us navigate these waters. Just as deeper sections of a river can be more dangerous and difficult to navigate, this stage of our lives demands greater strength and resilience.

Deep waters are often unpredictable and can appear calm on the surface while hiding powerful currents underneath. Similarly, periods of emotional and personal growth can be tumultuous and challenging, even if they seem stable outwardly. These times may include starting a new business, getting married, or experiencing other life events that test our limits and push us to grow beyond our comfort zones. There’s an old saying that “smooth seas never made a seasoned sailor,” and that’s because navigating turbulent waters requires skill and builds courage. Navigating these life experiences enables us to grow and mature. The deepest parts of a river are often where the water is the most turbulent and wild. This mirrors the times in our lives marked by struggle, loss, and profound reflection. These periods can be dark and isolating, but they are also the moments where we learn the most about ourselves, our relationships, and our resilience. Just as the river carves new paths through rock, these deep waters shape and define us, leaving us changed but often strengthened.