Normally, when you think of the word recreation you think of parks, hobbies or vacations, an activity of leisure. Recreational activities are often done for enjoyment, amusement or pleasure and are considered to be fun.

They are a refreshment of strength and spirits after work, a diversion, something that helps promote clarity in us as we return to our serious, working, daily activities. Quality, safe, state-of-the-art facilities can also create memorable life experiences.

My favorite peaceful, inspiring, restful recreation spot is the beach. I was raised in California near beaches and spent many summers enjoying everything about the beach. My enjoyment continued in my youth and adult years with a husband who also is a beachcomber and fishermen. While I no longer swim, and laughingly splash around like a fish in the water, or attempt to “body surf,” I will always enjoy gazing at the beautiful, glass-like water, the sound of the waves breaking and the wonderful smells as I read and pray and chat with my husband from my hotel balcony.

There’s also another meaning to recreation, which can be stimulated by a brief change of scenery and rest. I like the idea of recreating my position, occasionally. It helps me to grow in different areas of my life and make room for serious changes that will help me run faster and uncluttered in my mind and body.

I lean on this scripture: “… Let us lay aside every weight, and sin which so easily ensnares (traps) us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith…” Hebrews 12:1-2 (NKJ)

We just returned from a lovely beach village that was celebrating our precious, brave veterans of war for Veterans Day — except they were calling it “Veterans Week” — with motorcycle groups, games, awards and swearing in inductees to the army. There was a beautiful flotilla of every size and kind of boat you can imagine, a wonderland for boaters and lovers of boats, a restaurant with huge aquariums full of fish to watch while you dine, fun gift shops, different bands every night and even a little train ride all around the edge of the hotel. There was so much to look at and enjoy!

Happy Veterans Day to our brave, faithful ones who serve. Be safe!

 Kathie Deasy writes about faith for The Port Arthur News. She can be reached at kathie.deasy@hotmail.com