I had been planning to go fishing and had been waiting on a good day, when a beautiful morning in October arrived. My gear was packed and ready to go. I could already see myself out on the Hiawassee River in my usual fishing spot next to a local power house.
I arrived very early to ensure I could get my favorite fishing hole. The river was down, as it had been a very dry year. I grabbed my gear and headed down to the water. Daylight was breaking and due to the low water, I was able to walk a good distance out into the river on the rocks. Taking my rod and reel I made my first cast. The weather was perfect--the air was still and the peace of the morning surrounded me.
As I took in the beauty around me, I was startled by a large splash in the water, just a few feet away. To be truthful, it scared me. Water soaked my clothes and my mind raced as to figure out what it was that had caused the disruption. What had fallen into the water so close to me? Then, suddenly out of the water came a large eagle with its head crowned in white. The eagle was gripping its trophy of the day in its talons. I stood and watched this beautiful creature fly out of sight and I was left to ponder the magic of the moment as I got over my fear. I thought about how great God truly is and marveled at the beauty of His creation.
I have seen many things in my 72 years. I saw Disney World as it was being built; I was on the Cape the day the first man was launched to the moon. I was there again when we lost the Challenger. But from all my experiences, none can compare to the beauty of that early October morning when I say down and thane God for what He had allowed me to see. We sometimes forget how fortunate we are and how truly blessed by our loving Savior whom we serve.
Ron Trotter
Cleveland, TN