Recently my hubby and I went to Kauai which has to be one of the most beautiful spots on earth! While there, one of the most exciting things we did was tubing through a series of canals and tunnels dug over a century ago. They were originally designed to bring water from the waterfalls of Mt. Waialeale to provide irrigation for large sugar cane fields. Although the sugar plantation has since closed down, these ditch systems are now used to provide what I consider one of the most unique water adventures in Kauai!
Since I had heard that water flowing from the mountain “might be chilly” in February and I hate being cold, I rented a wetsuit and proudly thought I was smart for being so prepared. Upon arrival, I realized I had no clue what I was getting into when a helmet with a head light on it was presented by our guide from the tour company. Even prior to the shock of immersion in the icy water, I knew I was NOT prepared for the fact that some of the mountain tunnels would be pitch black with swirling water that flung you alongside of jagged granite…and oh, did I mention the water was not chilly…but stinkin’ (that’s a word if you’re from NE) freezing cold?!
So as the fun begins and I’m hanging onto my tube for dear life, trying my best to avoid the rocks that could knock a person out, I’m praying and asking God what lesson He might have in store for me. I’m thinking He smiled as I heard the answer, "Oh, this is to teach you that you really are not in control”! Now intellectually I already knew this. But I experienced this truth on a whole new level!
Wanting to learn my lesson quickly, to my amazement I started to enjoy the ride when I decided to relax my grip on my little ‘transport’. Now I’m sharing this not only hoping to make you smile at the image of me flailing against granite walls on an inner tube, but to remind you of a lesson that I’m sure you too are aware of. We create stress in our lives whenever we try to ‘keep a grip’ on things or people in an attempt to get something to go ‘our way’. This experience confirmed what I momentarily forgot...thinking I can control any outcome is only an illusion.
It is when we ‘let go’ and trust God to be with us on the journey into the unknown, we can enjoy the freedom that ensues. Just like I enjoyed the thrill once I decided to go with the flow…not knowing what was to come...yet trusting I would eventually emerge out of the dark tunnels. When I did, my reward was stunning views of a most beautiful and remote location that I would not have fully appreciated if I had remained anxious about what lie ahead.
Would I recommend it? You bet! Just be sure to bring sunscreen, bug repellent, water shoes, and clothes you don’t mind getting wet. And unless you want your teeth to chatter from the cold...rent a wetsuit...you'll be glad you did! :-)
Until next time....enjoy your ride...and be blessed!
Deb