What the Lifeguard Saw (that no one else did . . . )

I've been dying to share this story for
years.

4 years exactly.

And it involves a beach lifeguard and a 12
year old girl.

And it's a story that, like many of the most
profound things in life, I almost could have
missed . . .

Almost could have let pass from memory.

Almost could have never even paid the
attention it so well deserves.

But in this instance . . . despite the
subtlety of what I witnessed . . . I did
grasp the extraordinary underlying
significance.

A significance that has to do with rescuing a
life.

Rescuing 'your' life.

Rescuing my life.

Or both of us discovering how to rescue a
loved one's life.

I say that without the slightest
exaggeration, as you will soon see.

And I say that because a lot of people are
literally drowning.

Literally caught at sea in a sinking boat.

And that's what this story is about . . .

the devastating things that sometimes occur
in life.

But the effective measures you can take to
rescue yourself.

Or your loved one.

And . . .

most importantly of all . . .

to avoid the circumstance in the first place.

SO, can you guess what the story is about?

I've not given you many clues.

But I've given you enough for someone with a
little bit of luck – someone of the thousands
of Wealthy Souls receiving this newsletter –
to guess the story and its immense lesson
correctly.

Simply share your answer in the comments box
below –

468 Replies to “What the Lifeguard Saw (that no one else did . . . )”

  1. he discovered that life is the most precious gift we are given and helping someone is the greatest gift we can offer

  2. I’m guessing the essence here is referring to the ultimate sense of compassion and “no-self”. In our efforts to rescue others, we rescue ourselves, not the least from a narrow and contracted state of the ego to an expanded state of consciousness and being.

  3. As a life long “rescuer” of people and animals, I have found that if I don’t remember to save myself first or put on my own life jacket before jumping in to save another, I, myself, begin to drown.
    At this point, both of my young adult sons and myself, find ourselves in transitions that will bring us to the next part of our life paths.
    If I focus only on them and their needs, I will not be able to do what is needed to help them succeed, nor will I be able to find success myself.
    Remembering to put on my own oxygen mask or life jacket first,or taking care of my own goals and needs first, will allow me the strength to help them with theirs. Without helping ourselves first, we cannot possibly do all that is needed to help others.

  4. I believe in any situation you keep your eyes open and listen for those clues that someone is drowning in their own life. Overwhelmed by things that may happen in life, we feel out of control and that there is no way to turn things around. However, I also believe that when God takes something from your grasp, he’s not punishing you, but opening your hands to receive something better.

  5. Alright,it must about be helping someone, to learn how to swim. About compassion, love, oneness, and that it doesn’t come from out there, but rather from within? That only after we learn this, can we attract, and manifest what we wish, into our lives? That by saving others, we are saving ourselves? We are many of one, instead of one of many?
    Dorothy

  6. Is it about losing one’s fear of danger and sense of concern about oneself when completely caught up in a selfless task to do something good for another?

  7. the lifeguard was despondent about his own life and intentionally set out to drown himself and his sorrows. He swam far beyond his ability to self-rescue. As he was mentally rehearsing his sadness and good-byes, from nowhere came a young girl desperately clinging to a bit of driftwood and trying to stay afloat in churning water. The lifeguard turned his attention to getting her to shore and found his distress had evaporated in the process. “Oh Master grant that I may never seek…so much to be consoled as to console…”-Frances of Assisi

  8. the ocean is a metaphor for life — tho it’s waters be filled with risk, to enjoy the wonder and blessings of it, take the risk and plunge it without fear, knowing that there is One who watches over you. peace and blessings to all, k

  9. By staying alert, being prepared, and taking action for others, we fulfill our life’s purpose— every day there is an opportunity to make a difference to someone and to receive a multitude of blessings from it. In the story, gratitude and appreciation was felt reciprocally between the lifeguard and the little girl, even though, at first it, it may seem that it was only the little girl’s life “saved” by the act. We can fulfill any dream in life, by taking action for ourselves and especially others, one step at a time, in situations that are set right in front of us.

  10. What I’m picking up is that the girl was like many people and drifting through life.
    And that she may have been trying to kill herself by drowing.
    Although the lifeguard saw her and rescued her. And that act of compassion and self-less giving gave her a new lease on life…
    Turning her into an advocate who started speaking to other teens and gave them direction and hope, and probably saved other people’s lives.
    Thank you, Michael, for this exercise of stretching beyond the seen, until it’s at least felt.
    Warmly,
    Dan

  11. I dont think this story is the same but its a real story that I heard once. which would probably have a similar essense. Its about a little boy whos parents taught him to swim when he was small so that he would not drown when he grew up. As a result he managed to save the lifes of two children when he was twelve years old. I think the essence of the story is prevention is better that cure and if you can save one life you can save two at the same time. By saving his own life first he was able to save the girls.
    We all want to save everyone else and in the process we find ourselves drowning. Its when we start to save ourselves first we really start to find our answers.

  12. Sometimes a resuce is simply telling someone to stand up. The currents that drag us to and fro have less impact on us when we plant our feet firmly on the ground (or in this case the sand). When life is pushing and pulling those standing firm and headed in the right direction survive and often live abundently. It is our human nature to look for difficult solutions for life’s problems but it often is simple action that saves ones life!
    Jim

  13. I think it is about the connection we all have to spirit. we are all one and in the face of death one realizes we are all connected. that life is about love and service to ourselves to others..

  14. This story is about being bigger than ourselves. I believe the Lifeguard offered the gift of a smile and a simple hello, a gesture of love BEFORE the 12 year old girl actually jumped into the water to end her life. The little girl wanted to be seen, to be acknowledged as one of God’s gifts, just to matter to someone. A gift as simple as a smile maybe all that is needed to save a life.

  15. Waking up! Waking up to our beauty from within ourselves. Remembering who we are, and by doing so, we help others by just being who we really are.
    Letting go of fear and Just BE!

  16. The lifeguard was going through a mayor depression. Nothing in his life made sense. His existance seemed totally meaningless and empty.
    A few hours before the rescue he had decided to commit suicide that same evening. He had it all worked out.
    As he walked half-aware, half unaware along the beech, somehow trying to enjoy the last day of his life, a voice cried out for help.
    Willing to die anyway, he thought he might just as well go in a “grant” way rather than being thought of as a coward by family and friends.
    He rushed in where angels would have feared to tread, fearlessly. For what is there left to be feared when dead has become your closest friend?
    The very moment he got hold of the drowning child, his attitude changed. It was no longer a matter of just saying good-bye to this world; suddenly the future of a young girl depended on his strenght, on his capability to get back to shore in record time.
    Something, deep inside of him caught fire; a fire called passion. The feeling of which gave him wings.
    On reaching the beach,rescue workers took over. He dropped on his back, looked up to the sky and shouted:” Thank God to be alive! This is what I came to do here.
    Man, I’ve got a mission. Always had one, just wasn’t aware of it.
    Planet Earth, count me in!”
    Marite

  17. When you are floundering in the ocean of life and can not see a way out, you need to have someone to show you the way to swim through the turbulence and bring you into that place of peace again. A lifeguard, coach , mentor or other not living in the situation can see clearly to help pull you to shore.

  18. In resuing the girl the life gaurd rescued himself. Many times in our efforts to serve others we serve our ownselves. The law of cause and effect is kicked in to return to us whatever we dish out. Hence it is important to live life in a kindly way.

  19. As my Honey has been a lifeguard in his life, I have been advised enough that the lifeguard needs to make sure they can keep themselves safe enough, even from those they are trying to safe, or there isn’t going to be any saving of anyone.
    When someone is panicing, their actions are so tunnelvision focused they don’t realize they may be even hurting those who are trying to rescue them from that which they fear. Instead, they strike out, push, pull, grap, hit.
    Lifeguards and others have been injured or worse, by the victim of which they are trying to save. So it is with others, so it is with our own selves.
    Just saw what time it is……..gotta go pick up my kids.
    Hugs to all.

  20. Nothing we do is insignificant. Being a lifeguard can seem insignificant to some. It is not seen the same as being a firefighter or doctor. (And I was a lifeguard a long time ago). Yet a single action is not a single action – the ripple effect is eternal. The lifeguard may be seen as saving the single life of a young girl, which is obviously a significant act. But in saving her life, it allowed her to continue on and impact the lives of others, who impacted the lives of others, who impacted…. The “single” act of the lifeguard had ramifications that extended to infinity. As do every single act of every person. We have no idea what the true impact is of every one of our seemingly insignificant actions each day.

  21. Forgeting what happened prior to the “saving”, what matter was they took action(they were aware) what was needed to be done to help each other…with out thought…just being in the moment.
    jd

  22. I believe the greatest gift is our ability to “consciously” choose to be of service to another as to give someone a new breath of pure awareness in the moment of our divine purpose in our being here and being present in the now as we are in perfect harmony, in unity and in peace and in oneness of all life, which is the essence of God, the divine, the divine essence of love towards our neighbor as we get to see the beauty and love through another as our reflection of the one creator of life.

  23. I think the “essence” is a simple life lesson…to always watch over others and try to rescue them when they are drowning in the ever-changing sea of life.

  24. They had recognised the commonality of all life abd that in each of us lives an essential part of the others life stream and if it had passed on his life would have been lessened by it. this is the reason why service to others is the true enlightenment path in whatever form it takes . i am from australia so the day in sedona would be a hard call but Michael , an honour to take part in this moment of true relationship over the airways with the part of me that lives in you all, much love Rod

  25. The girl wanted to go farther out in the water than she should have. It didn’t look that far and looked safe, but the undercurrent carried her farther out and prevented her from being able to swim back. This is like decisions that we make that look OK, but have consequences that we don’t think about or see. Once she was out there, she couldn’t get back and needed help from someone else. The lifeguard in the story represents God, or people that God uses in our lives, to rescue us when we get in over our heads and are drowning from our own mistakes or the circumstances of our lives.

  26. One of the little girl’s parents needed resuscitation. The little girl got the life guard to attempt to save her family members life, but was unable to do so. He/She was a comfort to the little girl in that time.
    Seeing the urgency on her face would be a shock. Seeing the disappointment would be unforgettable. As you are working with so many people who are struggling in life, you see the same sense of empathy and the urgency is definitely there.

  27. It’s not about the saving, it’s about doing your best in the job you do, be it lifesaving or any other job.
    The satisfaction of a job well done is the important item here as it lets you grow both spiritually and mentally.

  28. the anxiety and panic of drowning takes others down with us. difficult to be saved unless we let go of the struggle????

  29. By teaching the little girl how to float by letting go, relaxing, lying on her back, stop fighting the waves, keeping still, looking at the sky, letting the water support her weight, keeping her mouth out of the water, continue breathing, and waiting confidently for a strong arm to pull her to a safe place, or for the waves to lead her to the shore.

  30. The one sentence “to avoid the circumstance in the first place” in a rescue at the beach, as it also is in life, I believe is key for me. We must be aware, alert to what is going on around us and within ourselves, while at the same time being willing to listen, take advice, and perhaps warnings of others with knowledge we might lack, knowing they have our best interest at heart. I live at the beach and know that it is best to go in the ocean near a lifeguard and that he is aware if there is some kind of danger in the water and will give a warning. Maybe if we listen, pay attention, learn all we can from one who cares, that will be our rescue.

  31. There are times we must reach out FOR help to save our own life, and times we must reach out TO help our loved one(s) and friends. And by giving of ourselves, especially in the times when we feel like WE need the help, by helping someone else, we help ourselves.

  32. One of the little girl’s parents needed resuscitation. The little girl got the life guard to attempt to save her family members life, but was unable to do so. He/She was a comfort to the little girl in that time.
    Seeing the urgency on her face would be a shock. Seeing the disappointment would be unforgettable. As you are working with so many people who are struggling in life, you see the same sense of empathy and the urgency is definitely there.

  33. One of the little girls parents needed to be resuscitated. The little girl got the life guard to save her family member.
    Seeing the reaction of the little girl and the life guard brings to mind the many people you see who are drowning in their life problems.

  34. And so it is there is nothing to big, nothing to dangerous, there is absolutely nothing that could stop a person helping another person in need. Have Faith, Trust. Believe. Just extend your hand out and the Strength, Courage, Wisdom and Power will be yours to help you accomplish what it is that you set your mind to do. And as the hand is extended, reach out and grab hold for Love has come to save you. And what you give you get to keep and it grows even stronger yet. It is the Universal Law. It is what I Believe. It is what I know to Be Truth.

  35. The Lifeguard by sharing his own ‘recycled’ oxygen with the 12 year old girl, brought her back to life. Oxygen is a gift that represents life and must be present continuously, and is the only substance that can literally ‘bring a person back from the reaches of the dead’. Therefore, oxygen is a reflection and sharable element / representation of God.

  36. The little girl thought she was beyond rescue but in helping her the lifeguard showed that help is always at hand, sometimes in the most unlikely places. And in rescuing the child the lifeguard was helping himself – you can get everything you want if you just help enough other people to get what they want.

  37. We are ONE! We are all connected therefore affect each other in all we do, in all ways, always!
    We are creators of evolution. As more become aware,less rescuing and more creating will enable humankind to evolve into the divine realization of the unimaginable state of LOVE that the ONENESS ….IS!!!!!

  38. I believe it is about really seeing what is around you. I think that the 12 year old girl helped the lifeguard to see and to wake up. I believe that the lifeguard in saving her also helped her to see the beauty all around and that all life is precious.

  39. It struck me that the story it’s self is not important as we do not know from the details supplied who rescued who. What is important is that a rescue took place at all. If we just give up thoughts of “self” and reach out to those in need around us we will in fact be rescuing ourselves.

  40. Its a story of inner peace. The lifeguard thought things in his life were at their lowest, he was going to do nothing greater in his life than “just be a lifeguard”. When he saw the little girl in the water, he forgot all the negatives in his own life; his low point so to speak and went inward to his concious being. As he was running to say the little girl, he could see himself running into the water. He could see himself and the “presence” take over, grab the little girl and begin swimming towards the beach. Her little arms around his neck were the gift of love, kindness, gratitue for his efforts. In these gifts the lifeguard found strength to go forward. He found wisdom and clarity in what he had done and he found that his presense in the here and now was all that mattered. He found himself!

  41. When our awareness is centered outside ourselves and on others in distress, when we contribute to the fulfillment of their needs without regard to the benefit to ourself, we become aware of true reward found in unconditionally being there when the circumstance presents itself. It is easier to save another than to save ourself and yet in doing so, we reap the internal reward.

  42. The greastest treasure in life is to find what we are good at and persue it to near perfection. We can only save and inspire others when we are passionate about positive things. When we realize our lives are the greatest gifts of all and can only truly be happy be giving to others, then life becomes deeply meaningful. The lifeguard has the skills to save the girl. Maybe he was down in his spirits, but when he saw her drowning, he knew what he had to do, even if he drowned in the process. If we really value life, we are willing to give it up in the process of doing what we are called to do. And the lifequard had a calling–one he was trained for. He did rescue the girl and his own sagging spirits.

  43. We are all connected together and when we free ourselves of these limiting thoughts and behavior from our past then we are able to help our loves ones release their limiting fears through the releasing of the energy that has been around for many generations or centuries. In order for us all to reach greater awareness in us we must help to expand each other consciousness by the Act of Love toward one another. Then only then have we saved ourselves and each other. Then we will arise and ascend into that greater awareness the Oneness of the whole. LOVE is the answer for the world today!!!!
    There is no greater love than when one gives his own life for another so that he might be free into the greater good of the whole. We are all on an uphill climb to the greater awareness of life.
    Martha

  44. The essence of reaching out to another… All it took to rescue and save this precious life was to extend a helping hand with a life preserver… just to reach out & care … and offer the floating tube… or the way for someone to climb aboard… and remembering we can all reach out… we all have tools and gifts to share that can inspire and save others… and then there is also the perspective that maybe …… she got to help the lifeguard to save himself and know that he makes a difference… NAMASTE!

  45. I think we all presume that it was the life guard that saved the girls life (just because it is his role to save life), but i think the it was the 12 year old that managed to save the life guards life. (or managed to save someone elses) Perhaps the two of them were ambling slowly along the beach. The girl stopped and smiled and chatted to the life guard for a while then moved on. This seeminly everyday event saved the life guards (or some one elses) as it changed his course in life for just a brief moment. Perhaps he managed to see someone in trouble in the water who he wouldn’t have seen if he didn’t stop to talk to the 12 year old girl. Perhaps something catastrophic would have happended to him if he didn’t stop to talk to the 12 year old girl. Was it fate or divine intervention?

  46. The girl he saved somehow later had a part in saving the lifeguard, perhaps through a blood or organ donation. Also the girl may have been related to him or someone significant in his life.

  47. THE LIFE GUARD FOUND THAT THE 12 YEAR OLD GIRL HE RESCUED WAS HIS DAUGHTER.AS A RESULT HE SAVED HIS DAUGHTER AND HIS JOB.

  48. The essence, I believe, is that the lifeguard realised that the girl was only the manifestation of something in himself that needed to be ‘rescued’. Therefore he became aware of the connectedness of all humans through this rescue.

  49. The lifeguard brought the lifeboard and life ring. He made sure that he himself was empowered to save by equipping himself with the right tools. Once he reached her safely, he put the ring around her to keep her head above water, and using the life board, propelled both of them to safety.

  50. I believe the lifeguard rescued the 12 year old from drowning. The essence of the story being that, had the girl given thought to wearing a life jacket, she would’ve been safe without risking another’s life. On that thought, we should do some planning ahead of time (the life jacket) before we are left out at sea in a sinking boat (what our future holds). If one plans and makes thoughtful choices in life, then they will ultimately float above safe waters effortlessly!

  51. I can only envision him coming into shore with the little girl in his arms and lying her in the sand to breathe life back into her body. As she responds the sun seems to shine brighter and people around all feel the love and excitement of this small life and the power this one child has on the many people watching with feelings all bursting out in love. And as you did, they remember. And, as you share, her life spirals out once again to capture hearts and remind us all of how magnificent and powerful life really is.

  52. The girl found herself caught in a riptide that was pushing her out to sea. As hard as she tried to save herself by swimming toward the shore, she was not strong enough to overcome the current. Slowly she was being pushed farther out away from the promise of solid ground. It was then that the lifeguard signaled to the exhausted girl: don’t try to swim against the tide, just swim out of it! He pointed for her to swim sideways, parallel to the shore, her ultimate goal. She obeyed, and was carried even further out as she swam. Very soon, she knew that she had broken through — not by overpowering the current, but by swimming OUT of it. It was then that was free to swim slowly to the comfort of the welcome sand. All the lifeguard did was point the way out. All she did was to trust him. And a life was saved that day.

  53. Marite seems to have the answer. Loved his/her answer. In the face of death sometimes we discover our mission on earth. The lifeguard most probably saw the significance of his job for the first time – could it have been his daughter that he rescued?

  54. No matter what the circumstances, by finding a place of service and contribution one can “find his own life” upon being willing to “lose his own life”. “Greater love hath no man, than that he lay down his own life for his friend.”

  55. One further observation about escaping the rip current: The lifeguard knew that the most dangerous thing to do would have been to dive into the same current and to try to pull her out. He positioned himself outside that dangerous current in order to provide a direction for her to save herself by escaping from the thing that would certainly have taken her life.

  56. We are all here to be in-spirit. to give service to others because we are connected to others with Divine Source energy, by losing ourselves (ego) in the service of others, we raise our energy vibrations to a higher frequency the frequency of compassion and love. Each time we give to another, we give to ourselves, this is a expression of gratitude to the Divine. who asks for nothing and gives everything.

  57. The day was beautiful and the young 12-year girl thought it was the perfect day to take her boat out to the beach. Without thinking, 1st you must have your safety gears with you
    Regardless how big or small your boat is. One rule with the sea – life jacket is a must to help you float and easy to see. As the sea is very unpredictable at all times you must be
    Prepared for anything any change in any moment. As she rowed her boat out to sea she
    Was struck out of the boat with a freak wave. She was in the water without any safety
    Gears struggling to afloat in rough sea.
    The lifeguard was fortunately on duty saw the girl being washed off the boat ran to her rescues. With great difficulty swam out to the girl and manage to grab her and swim her back to the beach. The lifeguard had to performed a PCR, as she was full of water
    And was unconscious. He tried so hard at this time there were lots of onlookers surrounding them. Finally he manages to get her conscious.
    The significance that has to do with rescuing a life you don’t have time to think about yourself. For the lifeguard all his focus was to rescue the little girl and he did.
    We all can rescue our loved ones and ourselves if we first prepared for anything that might occur in anytime of our lives. If we focus on what we want and not what we don’t want.

  58. I am thinking of ATRTITUDE. tHE GIRL HAD NOT FOLLOWED INSTRUCTIONS IN THE WATER & perhaps was beligerent after being rescued?

  59. The lifequard was drowning in his or her own thoughts of life. Looping about this and that of what life for him or her should, could or needs to be. Then realizing after rescuing a life, how all those thoughts are meaningless. The greatest essence in life is understanding that the only real experience in life that matters is the present moment. We can only truly live in the present moment. A second in the past is gone for ever and a second in the future has not happened yet. Saving a life can bring that into crystal clear focus for the lifeguard, and let them see themselves reflected in the eyes of the 12 year old girl that precious life and the present moment are one in the same. And at that moment they were both rescued.

  60. At the heart of the story is the simple lesson of asking for help and accepting help without struggle. Most people are willing to help, if given the opportunity or asked. In doing so, the “victim” is saved and the person “helping” is given new purpose.

  61. In life we all experience times when we feel the need to be recued. I believe the message here is that we are not alone, there are others close to us who will be there for us,to recue us, it is only for us to reach out and ask and to give in return.

  62. The essence of the story witnessed,almost dismissed, but ready to be shared after four years, has to do with the “Aha..’: the clarity of vision in action. This is what we search for before or after, moment by moment, with every encounter in order to be the “light.” It most certainly is what I wished I could have known and know at every moment in order to be in alignment with my ultimate good purpose on earth.

  63. What we get in life is in relation to what we give. Love begets love,Give Respect to receive Respect, send a smile and receive a smile, save a life and save a life. So what you have is in proportion to what you give. So give it up friends.

  64. The girl was in over her head in the circumstances and could only do what we all do when we’re in over our heads, react. Reaction leads to more of the same circumstance which put her further under water and, thus she began to drown. The lifeguard (coach), recognized the circumstances from another perspective and responded to the situation. That perspective led to the life saving opportunity which is, for us, life saving growth. We all need our lifeguards (coaches and mentors) to help us respond and not react to our circumstances of life.

  65. It is only when we devote ourselves to serving others that we truly find our purpose and joy in life. Greater love has no man than he who gives up his life for another,

  66. The 12 year old and the life guard are the same person.
    He/she saved herself metaphorically from continuing on the wrong path,and then went on to literally save lives.
    Later the lifeguard saved his/her own child.
    But really I think all answers might be right…we are writing some part of ourselves or at lest our point of view.
    Maybe we only wish it went the way our story did…maybe it did.

  67. Maybe it means that when we are drowning in life, if we are willing to struggle and call out for help, we can be saved by those qualified, waiting, and willing to help us.

  68. Most people in life are just drifting along with the current.
    They haven’t consciously chosen to direct their own path in life. Instead they became languidly content in their own existence-just shuffling from day-to-day and believing that’s all they really need to do-just exist. They aren’t stimulated, and they aren’t fulfilled. If you found out what their real dreams and hopes were, you’d realize that the path they float on will never take them there.
    We can all fall victims to this trap-and unless we make a willful effort to be in control of our own destinies, we’ll succumb to the lazy river that doesn’t require any goal-setting and effort.
    One day we may wake up on the raft of life to discover that we’re rapidly moving toward a steep waterfall with no anchor, paddles or motor to help steer our boat out of the dangerous path it is on.
    Truly, one of the most devastating things that can happen to us is to be so content with life that we just let it drift by, like the shore from a raft, until we can’t even see it any more. After enough time has passed, we may be so far from the plans and notions that once captivated us that we need someone to rescue us.
    It doesn’t have to be a lifeguard. Someone with life-coaching experience can save us from an unfulfilling and mediocre existence. One where we’re not doing anything to help make the world a better place, or interacting with others, in the way that we were made to. They can rescue us from drowning in a sea of contentment that will not only shipwreck our life but….if we’re not careful….it will also steal our dream.

  69. The girl thought she was drowning and before the lifeguard could reach her, she finally realizes that she could actually stand on her own two feet and walk toward the shallow water. We all have within us, everything we need to turn our life around but often times we forget or don’t fully realize the truth.

  70. The essence of the story is that we are never alone, there is always a “lifeguard” keeping us from drowning in the ocean of our emotions. The extended sense is that you are yourself your lifeguard keeping your innerchild from drowning in taking action to save her life, your life. You take responsibility for yourself and you are the rescuer of your own innerworld.

  71. She must have been sinking in the water and she was rescured by someone who saw her in good time and maybe he/she helped her to learn how to swim and be fearless in water.

  72. I believe the essence of the lesson is the vital importance of our being FULLY ALIVE IN, AND PRESENT TO, each and every NOW MOMENT of Life!
    My guess is that had the LIFEguard not been FULLY PRESENT to life as it was occurring around him/her in the moment of the 12 year old girl’s need … she may not be alive today …
    The question to ask ourselves might then be … how present are we really … to ourselves, to others, to the planet we live upon, to the Creator of All that Is … and … if we are not present to life itself … in effect there is no life i.e. there is a form of death …
    Life begets life … choose life … not death! That is the essence of the lesson! Wow … that is a ‘biggie’!

  73. We are perfectly safe and secure for eternity and no soul actually needs to be rescued. With this peaceful knowingness in mind, the inner guide (Holy Spirit)may nudge us to take action to “seem” to rescue someone but it’s really ultimately to join in Oneness with that other being which will allow the seeming separation to dissolve.

  74. “sea” is the World of sin
    “sinking Boat” represents the people who are drowning in their sins
    “rescuer or beach life gaurd” is the Lord Jesus Christ.
    The essence of the story is Once we were the people who are drowning in the sea, not obeying the voice of Beach life gaurd. At the end of our state, the life gaurd has given us one more life by rescuing us.

  75. The lifeguard was rescuing his/her inner child who had been lost at sea and drowning.
    The playful, imaginative, spontaneous, creative side was rescued.

  76. Fisrt and foremost, this world and our lives are full of challenges, which if not well managed tend to overwhelm us, literally drowning in those challenges – or sinking at sea. At the same time, we can learn a lot from these challenges and be able to grasp opportunities arising from them to enable us “rise from the ashes.” Thus, each challenging situation provides an opportunity to salvage our lives. We should, therefore, grasp those opportunities to save ourselves, our loved ones, our neighbours, and everybody else.

  77. The story of the lifeguard and the 12 year old girl reminds us that whoever we are, whatever we do in life we are destined to a greater sense of meaning in our lives, cope better with our own stress by shifting our focus to others,feel more socially connected, enjoy a greater sense of competence and effectiveness. And we attain this by the act of giving like what the lifeguard has done to the 12 year old girl.

  78. I would say the Essence is Total Compassion for the Girl, He wasn’t thinking of himself first but to save a precious life, I think by helping someone else you regain your own inner peace, The satisfaction of helping someone else is greater than life itself.

  79. We are all lost in our own dream world created by the ego. Rescuing a life, in your sense, mean waking up from our dream world (or should I say, our own interpretation of the world) and see the world as is.
    When you have a single moment of the truth, you will see that we are ALL in the same predicament (of different levels) and will forever stop judging anyone anywhere.
    Compassion will fill you up and you see everything as one.

  80. I think that all of us climb into sinking boats at some point along our journey in life. Usually the ones who have experienced this can see it for what it is…they can spot the boat better than the person who is in it (and doesn’t realize there’s a hole in the bottom of the boat). And, because the experienced one has survived this, they move from their heart to assist the sinking, boated soul. We are meant to DO something with the tragic experiences of our lives – the very same ones that strengthened us, and our capacity to see, feel, empathize and lead. These experiences shape us to guide others and live more deeply from our hearts. It’s also a testimony to have faith that we are not alone, that people do care and want to help.
    Love.

  81. ***for some reason my post showed up as being from “Dennis” but it’s actually from me “Nants!” I’ll try again… *** I think that all of us climb into sinking boats at some point along our journey in life. Usually the ones who have experienced this can see it for what it is…they can spot the boat better than the person who is in it (and doesn’t realize there’s a hole in the bottom of the boat). And, because the experienced one has survived this, they move from their heart to assist the sinking, boated soul. We are meant to DO something with the tragic experiences of our lives – the very same ones that strengthened us, and our capacity to see, feel, empathize and lead. These experiences shape us to guide others and live more deeply from our hearts. It’s also a testimony to have faith that we are not alone, that people do care and want to help.
    Love.

  82. This ia a direct quote from “The Universe,” and I feel it fits in well with the essence of the story of the life guard and the 12 yr girl.
    “there are no accidents. If it’s appeared on your life radar, this is why: to teach you that dreams come true; to reveal that you have the power to fix what’s broken and heal what hurts; to catapult you beyond seeing with just your physical senses; and to lift the veils that have kept you from seeing that you’re already the person you dreamed you’d become.”

  83. The lifeguard was suffering from depression, feeling that his life was insignificant and without worthwhile purpose. He was thinking of ways to end it and he thought of drowning. While he was harbouring such thoughts he noticed a 12 year old in difficulty in deep waters and in danger of drowning. He hurriedly went after her and despite strong current was able to rescue her- to the joy of her family and friends.
    In saving her he saved himself, realising that he was significant and had an important purpose to fulfil.

  84. The lifeguard told the girl to relax and breath and reminded her that she was always safe no matter what the circumstances were.

  85. Well Michael I think that you are writing about me because as a 12 year old I was washed out to sea by a freak wave. You can imagine the terror & virtually watching ones life disappear before there eyes however a girl without a life belt came to my rescue & was awarded a medal for her bravery how selfless was that she risked her life to save mine. I believe that God had a better plan for my life & now I have found you with the wisdom & knowledge that you give to the world. We all have a purpose in life & I look back & hope that I have benefited from the lessons that I was taught that day. NEVER GIVE UP!!!!

  86. why do i think everyone wins this. for just a “Small Fee ”
    The lifeguard listens all day and tunes in to that one small cry for help.

  87. In addition to my earlier post:
    Relax, you are always safe, whatever the circumstances you are in, trust in life, trust in God, trust in the self, trust in the Drama, the will to live… and of course unconditonal love to all creatures and fearlessness.
    Fearlessness here is probably the main dominant.

  88. Even though the little girl was hardly knee-deep in the water, she was being overthrown by (what seemed to her), enormous waves. Waves that kept on coming and coming and relentlessly pushed her down.
    The lifeguard showed her to put her feet on the sand and stand up & in so dong rise above the waves that were getting her under!
    The lesson: Plant your feet firmly on the ground (the ground of who you are and what you want in life) and stand up from your current situation or problem.
    Rise above it/them and stop allowing that they overthrow & overpower you.
    You have the strength within you to do this…you simply need to learn how to use it.

  89. No matter how difficult a situation one is facing, there is always a way out. Believe in yourself, have faith that you can do all things with God’s help. Believe that God is helping you, guiding you, giving you the wisdom, the strength and confidence you need in all areas of your life. My youngest son, 11 years old now drowned 8 years ago during a family reunion. He was lifeless for almost an hour, but he was revived without any complications by faith. This miracle that happened made us {my family} believe that all things are possible with God if you believe in him and that we can do all things through Christ.

  90. We are in a world where we can not live in isolation. At any point in time we need the aid, comfort, support advise etc of others. We therefore stand to play the lifeguard role in somebody’s life no matter how insignificant it may appear in our eyes. But to someone over there it is a great deal of assistance. Always endeavour to play a role in someboy’s life today. You may be the only lifeguard to that person.It does not maater the person’s age.

  91. The essence of the story is “recognizing and taking responsibility” for the power of our thoughts, words, feelings and actions and how they can affect all around us in positive or destructive ways.
    Because we are all powerful spirits with almighty energy, how we present ourselves in words, thoughts, feelings and actions has a profound affect on everyone around us. This 12 year old girl is the lifeguard’s child who felt responsible for the grief, self- pity and anger that invaded her spirit by her parent. The only way out was to end her life, thus eliminating the problem. I’m sure the story ends in a positive note but it’s an eye opener. Sometimes when we lose ourselves in self-pity, we bring too many wonderful spirits down with us. Believe in the power of positive thinking………no matter what! It will change your life and all around in ways that you never imagined.

  92. The girl possibly had no extensive (if any) lessons in safety/swimming/taking precautions such as weather watching or keeping an eye on forecasts & put no thought into going to the beach other than “I’m going”. As in life, many of us simply go unconsciously about our daily lives, bopping about to the rhythms we find ourselves in without taking charge of situations/looking before leaping/ or making plans (simple or more in depth) as take our next steps as we proceed through the day. Life is simpler, albeit more risky when we take the unconscious route of just taking each day as it comes without much thought as to what we are actually doing/not doing in our thoughts & actions both. I find at least a little forethought can prevent small & large castrastrophies from occuring with the most basic thought put into decision making before our actions though – it doesn’t take much time or effort in most cases & is common sense to me. Some learn by trial & error, others intnetionally try to use past errors to prevent future/present ones from re-occuring though. When confronted with drowning/life struggles we can tend to go outside ourselves & panic/think more haphazardly/less rationally/ which usually results in complicating situations/worsening them. When we are thinking clearly/with some forethought given, we are able to see things much more clearly & React more appropriately, safely, thus overcoming/preventing ‘bad’, dangerous, unique, life altering events from worsening or continuing. If you are drowning (not living your true life with happiness/joy/hope/excitement/purpose), & someone tries to help us/rescue us, we can prevent the good (rescue) from happening to us, if we are not Aware/conscious/alert/knowing/intuitive by panicking/not thinking clearly/fighting the one trying to save us (pulling the lifeguard down with us instead of relaxing/having faith/ & letting her/him pull us in to safety. Life is not meant to be such a struggle, when we release & let God/have more faith/try to prepare for perils that ‘could’ come up daily by being Aware, we realize that instead of making our struggles harder on ourselves, we can accept help rationally, & quickly get out of the situation/back to normalcy. If the mindset is calm/conscious, we allow life to flow easier around us.

  93. Physical reality is an illusion created by consciousness to rediscover itself. It is an illusion that you do not have what you already want, because you already have all that you desire in spiritual reality. Physical reality is a place for you to manifest anything that you are resonating with from spiritual reality. When you are attached, you are resonating with the spiritual untruth that you do not have your desire. When you are detached, you are resonating with the spiritual truth that you already have your desire

  94. I believe the essence of the story is not that the young lady actually fell into the water and was drowning physically, but that there was an emotional/spiritual lesson that the lifeguard taught the young lady. That there was a conversation beyond the folly of going into unsafe ocean water, but rather unsafe life water, and that as a result the lady’s life was saved.

  95. The story could be about a human nature trait, which is,we can not be saved (as easily anyhow) when we do not accept the help from others (extremely frustrating for the one/s trying to assist). Vice/versa, e cannot save someone who is resisting our help. The struggle needs to be removed.

  96. I simply think that the girl was in fear before going into the water. I feel that the lifeguard saw her “fear” recognized it as just that (perhaps identifying with her)and he coached her step by step before going deeper into the unknown…she began to trust him and by doing that her confidence grew and soon she was swimming fearless…she had the freedom to explore without fear crippling her… key words trust, release, freedom!!!
    Maybe just maybe by chance Michael is this a true story? Were you the lifeguard? Just a thought!!!
    Peace!

  97. The story is about living with awareness. Since we are all of different ages with the capacity for only so much awareness, this story is also about trust – trusting the help of others. We do not all receive certain types of guidance we need at trying times in our lives for how to react in the best possible way. Life is the lesson, provides us with growth & more wisdom if we live consciously. When we need help/saving someone/others are put into our lives (be it a stranger at the precise moment we need it if we do not have the needed support system in place of family members for example) & a lesson is to accept the good intentioned help of these human angels in our lives. The universe is meant to be assisting & helpful, but as we age we learn to trust less sometimes (as no one is perfect & we learn about being dissapointed – fear), which can block the natural life force (i.e. helpful people in our lives/good-easier life flow) from helping us. We need to learn to get back some of this innocent trust & to intuit/higher knowledge kicks in/ when it is well-intentioned assistance being offered to us & to allow it into our lives. We can simply float on our backs (conserving life energy/not panicking)waiting to be saved or further help ourselves along by motioning our body/hand motions towards the safe shore to save ourselves. As the song goes ‘row row row Your boat, Gently Down the stream, Merrily, merrily, …life is but a dream. We all have our own realities that we perceive in the exact same situation. To live our lives to the utmost we need to remember to be aware & think of others & how we can also help them when we can, with only good intentions (not selfish/self-serving/power intentions). There are many subtleties in life that go by unnoticed by many, we are all going through our own expereiences which at times are very trying, & the world is made a better place when we purposefully try to stay aware & observe those moments when we ourselves need saving & when we can help others. (sleeping at the lifeguard post or ogling bathers while someone needs any assistance is not being very aware, nor responsible).

  98. We, as humans, are the living ‘angels’ to help others while on this planet earth. We could all be needed at anytime to be the ‘lifeguard’ for anyone, including ourselves, loved ones & total strangers. It pays to be alert, aware, living consciously, so that we are Able to Be of assistance during our lifetimes. If we are not Aware, observant, we so easily MISS these vital opportunities that we have been given daily.

  99. The simple secret is breath.
    Breathing is the most essential element of my manifested existence, as it is for both the lives of the characters in this story. It is particularly powerful and enlarged when our life force is shared as was likely done when the little girl was given and received cpr.
    The subtle and loving effort to restore the little girl to the full potential of her life was to fill her lungs with air and assist her to begin again to live. In the doing of this, both characters – as well as all us fortunate witnesses to this miracle – are increased, enlivened and reminded of the essential truth of our existence. Breath!
    Each breath is a new beginning. A gift and opportunity to experience the immense treasure that is our life. Giving breath, sharing breath and receiving life saving breath is love created.

  100. The life guard saved the girl from a shark attack and not only saved her life but had the save their own life as well.

  101. The lifeguard is the 12 year old girl. Afraid of the water, she learns not only how to swim but to be a saver of those who experience trouble in water. The more she helps others and trains for her job, the stronger she becomes.

  102. TO Guard Life is the essence.
    By paying Attention ,we won’t miss rescue opportunities.By taking effective action we can help those literally drowning.Be aware scan the area use all your senses ,you can make a difference for those around you.

  103. I think the lifeguard taught the girl how to float. He taught her how to use the ocean to be her strength and keep her afloat while she recovered and then could easily swim back to shore.He taught her to embrace the water and use it to her advantage.

  104. The 12 year old girl, playing in the water and was in danger of drowning, could not save herself she needed the life guard to save her. She is responsible for being there and partly responsible for the dangers she was in, but I guess that she must have went out to far, either by accident or not knowing any better, or certainly the circumstance in the water must of changed and she would of drown if not for the lifeguard who saved her life. Like the young girl many people are in a sinking boat caught at sea. Yes we are responsible for being there; however with knowledge the circumstances could have been avoided and they would not have got into trouble in the first place. Then devastating things occur in this life, circumstance change, life gets out of control; and you find you’re in that boat sinking like that 12 years old child, not knowing how or unable to rescue yourself, at that point you need help. Fear, depression, and main other stress in life can kill you has well as drowning. Thank heaven for the life guards.
    Last week I would not have responded to your email or resonated with it, sure my boat had a few leaks. But this week I had to put my commit my husband to a mental health ward in the hospital he has health problem mental and physical, it seems too much for person, it is difficult and sad to watch him endure mental and physical pain. My plan is get another job to pay expands and I have one ray of hope in a new treat that might help his dynstonia and well as brain.
    Thank for read
    Shauna Robbins

  105. The 12 year old girl, playing in the water and was in danger of drowning, could not save herself she needed the life guard to save her. She is responsible for being there and partly responsible for the dangers she was in, but I guess that she must have went out to far, either by accident or not knowing any better, or certainly the circumstance in the water must of changed and she would of drown if not for the lifeguard who saved her life. Like the young girl many people are in a sinking boat caught at sea. Yes we are responsible for being there; however with knowledge the circumstances could have been avoided and they would not have got into trouble in the first place. Then devastating things occur in this life, circumstance change, life gets out of control; and you find you’re in that boat sinking like that 12 years old child, not knowing how or unable to rescue yourself, at that point you need help. Fear, depression, and main other stress in life can kill you has well as drowning. Thank heaven for the life guards.
    Last week I would not have responded to your email or resonated with it, sure my boat had a few leaks. But this week I had to put my commit my husband to a mental health ward in the hospital he has health problem mental and physical, it seems too much for person, it is difficult and sad to watch him endure mental and physical pain. My plan is get another job to pay expands and I have one ray of hope in a new treat that might help his dynstonia and well as brain.
    Thank for read
    Shauna Robbins
    str@byu.edu

  106. ……………LOVE………………
    when a being has a heart and soul filled with the one ingreedient of LOVE…such substance is nutrience that feeds off itself, producing, filling each crevis within, to then evolve outwardly like a jug of water flowing over and out… seeping into the existance of all life around,
    promoting the light of life energy ……………LOVE.

  107. The essense of this is .
    That before you can truly live , you must Die to the old life.
    Letting go .. gives permission, to live

  108. Is this the Life we have been “dying”to live. by that I mean the opportunity to”wake up” from the dream of mass world consciousness.
    Whatever it takes. Even if that means staring—
    into face of our worst fears–death and or oblivion–in order to appreciate
    the Gift of life and all that it
    means.
    Even if it means being humble
    enough to look to the ‘greater’ within and above– to
    accept a
    strong hand from someone who has
    gone a little further down the
    path, or just a freind or family
    member who really cares for us.
    We all share this Earth and its
    treasures together and in a very
    real sense, we ‘are’ our brothers
    keeper. The trials of being human
    are not easy. We have all been
    ‘drowning’ at one time or another.
    One simple word of encouragement
    might have made the difference to keep going to the ultimate victory
    of self discovery and mastery of
    our thoughts and emotions and live
    the life of our own divine potential—the opportunity is always there—sunrise-sunset–
    To experience the Silent Secrets~
    The joy of giving and receiving~~
    David 5/6/08—

  109. LIfeguard main job is to save life that is drowning.In the process of this duty,it is important to be prepared for sudden situation that require immediate and urgent attention.Alertness,Strength,Courage,Stamina,Compassion,are the attributes

  110. The answer is the Essence of “Life”. Everyone talks about life, whithout paying attention to the real meaning; unless, you are in the middle of losing someone.
    Marlene

  111. My guess is that the lifeguard almost didn’t go to work that day because he didn’t want to go on. For some reason, he went on to work, and while in a haze..thinking of ending his life, he hears people calling for him because of the girl drowning. He immediately runs to her rescue, saves her, and they become very good friends, giving him a very good reason to carry on with this experience we call life.

  112. The story is about knowing your purpose and making a commitment to that purpose.
    But if you are in someone else’s boat and leading a life that’s not authentic to you, eventually your boat might sink. To avoid drowning in the sea of life you must find your purpose.
    Your purpose is not to rescue everyone, but only those that the Universe has placed before you. Your purpose is to be “you” to its fullest capacity! It may be helping the poor and needy or someone who is the total opposite but who may need your compassion, love and understanding. Or, it may involve doing the smallest task. But whatever it is, only you can do it! By living your destiny you will be on the right path – you will be given all the confidence, knowing, and strength to walk even the hardest trials of life.

  113. Step into your life, reach out to others and teach them to re-breathe; then, step away. Someone who is living is allowed to breathe life into someone else. What is saved besides the body? It’s Essence: Spirit, Core, Heart, Soul. A fast rescue can assist to minimize brain damages or fatal consequences. A person can save oneself while helping another to live or stay alive or even come back to life. Reach out and Breathe Life back in.

  114. Step into life. Reach out to others and teach them to re-breathe; then, step away. Someone who is living is allowed to breathe life into someone else. What is saved besides the body? It’s Essence: Spirit, Core, Heart, Soul. The Samaritan can save oneself while helping another to live or stay alive or even come back to life. A fast rescue can assist to minimize brain damages or fatal consequences. Reach out. Rekindle the breath of life quickly and quietly into yourself and others.

  115. I didn’t get to read the story-didn’t know where to find it…,but,I believe the ‘essence’ we are supposed to ‘get’,is….at some point in life,we serve as ‘;lifeguards’ to others,perhaps by being a friend,giving a smile,loaning money,WHATEVER! iT CAN BE A SMALL ACT IN OUR PERCEPTION,BUT AT THE TIME,THE OTHER PERSONS’ PERCEPTION,IT MAY MEAN everything TO THEM. The lifegaurd in this situation had no concern for himself,only that of unconditional love and desire to save another human being. That is the essence of what we are all here to learn,live and experience through all the trials and tribulations of our story! How did I do Dr. Norwood? Thanks,June

  116. The lifeguard was drifting through life in a great depression thinking that his life was not worth living anymore, there was no motivation, there was no light. He was going through the motions of being a lifeguard like a robot. When he finally brought the 12 year old back to shore after a great struggle and saw the enormous joy she had having recovered her life, he understood that life was worth living and that he too had reasons to enjoy life… to recover his own life.

  117. The lifeguard was drifting through life in a great depression thinking that his life was not worth living anymore, there was no motivation, there was no light. He was going through the motions of being a lifeguard like a robot. When he finally brought the 12 year old back to shore after a great struggle and saw the enormous joy she had having recovered her life, he understood that life was worth living and that he too had reasons to enjoy life… to recover his own life.

  118. The lifeguard is GOD. He gave his life to save the world. He gave us free will so we could make choices. I believe when we make mistakes we pray for help & he extends his hand to save us from drowning in the world of free will. Drowning in mistakes or choices.

  119. The essence is the inner technology called compassion that naturally balances all imbalances, heals, rescues, resurrects and magnifies the great things in life. Anyone who has compassion does the real thing, i.e. love. Compassion is miraculous, mystical, supernatural and magical! The rescuer’s heart is beaming compassion.

  120. Risking everything one owns for some noble cause is the true essence of life. Thinking and acting beyond one’s own self means sacrifice. Love transforms everything. Carrying out a duty with great love creates miracles. Live the great opportunity of life with what it deserves and the eternity will embrace you. An everlasting gain without any fear. To me, the story, means like this.

  121. As the girl was panicking and about to drown, and put them both at risk, the lifeguard told her she needed to help rescue him, too. That way they wouldn’t both go down.

  122. Sometimes when you are drowning in life the simplest but most effective help is a smile and a hug then open your ears and listen. In talking we sometimes see that the problem is not insumountable but can be eased. Always remember to do that for yourself first. You cannot give to another what you have not got. If you learn compassion for yourself then you can give it freely.

  123. Firtly, I think that before helping others, we ourselves, should be well armed.Thus we should help ourself before helping others. If the life guard would not have been trained, he would never have been able to help the 12 yr old gal no matter if he is selfless as he would also have been drowned…Life has more meaning by giving…You get what you give…
    Secondly Whenever you are someone who is aware, you will always be alert and thus might be anticipating things around you before it gets worse, which in turn might refrain you and people around you from getting caught up in embarassing situations. So you can prevent a disaster from happening.
    Thirdly, by saving the girl it shows a sense of selflessness, ready to jump out of love and compassion, which are more reinforced by doing so. By saving others, we manifest this quality around us, which in turn help to save ourselves.
    Also, by saving the life of loved ones, we are in fact saving ourselves, as the pain of loved ones affects us…
    If the life guard would not have saved the life of the girl, he would have failed in his job and felt helpless,. By doing so, he’s bringing up his own happiness and giving more life to his own life…

  124. Firtly, I think that before helping others, we ourselves, should be well armed.Thus we should help ourself before helping others. If the life guard would not have been trained, he would never have been able to help the 12 yr old gal no matter if he is selfless as he would also have been drowned…Secondly Whenever you are someone who is aware, you will always be alert and thus might be anticipating things around you before it gets worse, which in turn might refrain you and people around you from getting caught up in embarassing situations. So you can prevent a disaster from happening.
    Thirdly, by saving the girl it shows a sense of selflessness, ready to jump out of love and compassion, which are more reinforced by doing so. By saving others, we manifest this quality around us, which in turn help to save ourselves.
    Also, by saving the life of loved ones, we are in fact saving ourselves, as the pain of loved ones affects us…
    If the life guard would not have saved the life of the girl, he would have failed in his job and felt helpless,. By doing so, he’s bringing up his own happiness and giving more life to his own life…
    Life has more meaning by giving…You get what you give…

  125. my post showed up under ashwinee’s name instead of mine. ill try this again. we are never alone and protection surrounds us. Our job is to ask.

  126. I would guess that the essence of the rescue story is one of reversal. Ultimately the little girl succeeds in rescuing the lifeguard. The person in trouble found that she had everything she needed already inside of herself.

  127. Waves of thoughts can drown any person. Thoughts follow us all the time so we need to empty our minds so we can react in any situation ahead of us. Along with your breath, let us empty our minds and unite with God so all of us can help each other. If not we will drown. Yes we can rely on each other but in the end of the breath, it is with God that we swim.

  128. Thank You so very much Dr. Norwood for this divinely timed email that you have shared. It really could not have arrived at a better time.
    Here is how I see it? It was in the meeting of minds that the so called need to rescue and or be rescued came into play. For example, If I believe that I need to be rescued, circumstances will arise that result in an attempt by another to rescue me. If I believe that another needs rescuing then I will find myself in a situation wherein the opportunity to rescue is present. So how might we avoid this circumstance in the first place? I would say that we need change our expectation/belief about what we are perceiving or witnessing. To that we must see and feel the result that we desire as being allready present. We have to see and feel the result as if it has allready occured. As Greg Braden says in “The Divine Matrix” pg 121, “It’s all about the way we see ourselves in the field of all possibilities.” He further states …”all things are possible and we choose our possibilities.”
    As most of us have experienced this is often easier said than done. I am currently in the midst of what could be a potentially life changing experience for my son. This has moved me to implement the very practice to which I have spoken about in this note.
    Thank you for this opportunity to share. Wanda

  129. How did the lifeguard “see” what no one else saw? Part of it was preparedness, knowing the terrain of his responsibilities so well he could tune in at a level no one else could and achieve that undeterrable focus. While we all use our senses to navigate the world, he was so tuned in to “higher directives” he acted as a direct channel for the Divine to take action in the world–God serving God and being served by God in all her many manifestations and forms. A glimpse of the infinity of creation collapsed into a single moment.

  130. He trusted his instincts without hesitation – he knows how to hear his inner voice and to pay attentiont to it without questioning the validity of it.

  131. the girl was having a small epileptic insult and she froze, not being able to notice or move. That was why she had such a staring, unseeing look

  132. This lifeguard truly did his job, by guarding this girl’s life, because, he took INSPIRED ACTION. He simply acted from faith in his own instincts and wisdom from Source energy/God and was perfectly lined up and thus able to take laser-like, focused, inspired action immediately.

  133. The girl was deaf and in danger in didn’t even know it. The essence of the story is that we go through life … drifting away … wasting our lives with no indication just how dangerous the lack of a course can become. We just drift endlessly without realizing we can choose our own course and destiny.

  134. The lifeguard SAW. He did not think – he OPENED. To the Source, or the Universe, or whatever you might personally call the All-That-Is. In the moment of opening, he was able to instantaneously see (and Know) the entire situation – the circumstance, consequence and required actions to rescue the girl. He did not hesitate because it was not-thinking. The subtlety lies in the giving over of one’s ego to the connection of God-Source. That Unity is where we are truly found, and where our uniqueness shines most brightly.

  135. So often, most of hesitate when we see a need that has to be filled. We hem and haw and over analyze our life purpose instead of going with our gut instinct. This lifeguard used his intuition to know he was needed and didn’t hesitate. It was also his speed of action that was noteworthy.

  136. I find 2 things interesting. First, from the point of view of the girl. She did not know she was in danger and wasn’t too concerned (lack of panic on her face) because SHE didn’t know. Even if she did know, she was probably unable to save herself. We all do that–we are failing or drowning at something and don’t even know it. It takes someone skilled-outside of ourselves-to see it and to help us. That’s the importance of mentors/teachers/guides.
    2nd thing is from the point of view of the life quard. I don’t think that he reacted to instinct (maybe played a part) but he was highly trained. He knew what he was looking at based on experience and training, not just casual experience like someone who has grown up on the water would have. Another example, I grew up on the coast too. I thought that I KNEW shore birds having viewed them my entire life. It wasn’t until I started really studying birds in depth (books, tours, seminars) that I realized that there was this entire world of shore birds that I never really saw. As well as I can “read” tides, water changing have sailed, boated, swam on the water for decades, it does not compare to someone who is trained to spot danger on the water. Training and experience are the keys to REALLY know something.

  137. It wasn’t fearlessness. It was acting on your own instinct. Knowing that you are right even when it doesn’t look right to other people.
    The lifeguard trusted his inner knowledge even beyond his eyes.
    We may see better without our five senses and then to act without questioning your inner knowledge. That is what saved the girl.
    You might see someone or something that just does not seem right. Your gut says that it is not and you should follow your inner guidance without hesitation.
    Trust your inner god voice.

  138. Is it possible he was aware
    enough to know the young
    girl was deaf and could not
    actually hear the warning?

  139. I believe it is about the fact that the lifeguard was very aware…and open to the fact that there are many possible dangers.
    Maybe in life, the same as in this situation, there is a thing(a person or a situation) that can change our lives.We just have to be attentive all the time and SEE if something can help us or not.
    The thing that can change our lives is very subtle, and me may not see it…but if we do, if we feel that something is the right thing to do, me must act. Or else maybe there will be no other opportunity like that one.

  140. I posted a comment but it
    was shown by another name
    (Jackson) which was the name before mine????

  141. Despite riptides in our lives, and our inablity to call our for help (for whatever reasons — substance abuse, denial, other distractions) — a wonderful Higher Power looks out for us and always provides the strong arm. Gratitude, humility and “listening” helps us to see/feel that strong arm. Most times, the greatest help is not associated with alot of drama.

  142. The little girl had no idea she was letting her life slip away to the undertow. It took the lifeguard’s awareness of what was going to happen to bring her back. Just as people who let their lives go adrift to forces around them and have no control of the direction where they can take their own life.

  143. What a great story! This reminds me of being truly awake and alert at each moment, seeing through the delusions that the world often presents us and the dangers that could lead us astray. Being open and awake not only helps ourselves, with acts of compassion and swift determination we save others as well.

  144. It’s about TAKING ACTION in your life….believing enough in yourself to TAKE ACTION. We all have great ideas and “care” about many aspects of life, but how many of us never TAKE ACTION AND FOLLOW THROUGH? The lifeguard TOOK ACTION and didn’t hesitate. We all hestitate daily just doing the same old grind, with all our good intentions to do something different or new, but before you know it the day is gone – just as her life would have been if he didn’t TAKE ACTION!!!

  145. The little girl was deaf and the lifeguard, having experienced deaf people from personal experience knew what to do. Maybe he was deaf. Thus communication does not necessarily have to be verbal or obvious.

  146. The only thing that mattered that day to the lifeguard was his connection between him and the little girl and what was unseen in the huge body of ocean water. He acted without hesitation because of his oneness with the situation. He was the water. He was the girl. He was the one who could save her. It was without thought, but rather pure connection to oneness. He didn’t need to sit and consider what was going to happen. He knew and he acted.

  147. angels and the light is always around us, the lifeguard listened to there message to save the little girl

  148. His soul merges with her soul and together they became one fearless
    entity intent on fulfilling the committment and passion of their desires which were to reach the shore safely. she trusted him completely.

  149. Also,I will add this to my earlier comment: I believe the lifegaurd listened to his ‘sixth sense’,that voice of intuition we all have,to realize the danger the girl was in,probably before she realized the severity of her situation herself. This intuition is our Higher self,who is always aware and on the lookout for our own well being,if we would only quiet ourselves and LISTEN!

  150. I think the lesson is about TAKING ACTION without second guessing or any considerations. TAKING ACTION without thinking, doing the only right thing there is to do in the moment.
    For that the lifeguard had to be truly present, free of self concern,thinking. This alertness allowed him to respond – he was available to respond to the situation in the most natural, instinctual way. That is the law of the Universe – COMPASSION IN ACTION.

  151. When you have insight into a problem or situation, the time to act is NOW. Take action and move while the insight is fresh. Strike while the iron is sizzling. This is what the lifegaurd did. He didn’t wait to see if she would understand what he was doing. Once he saw she didn’t, he moved. Time is of the essence.

  152. Was the lifeguard her older brother? Did he know her just as Jesus, our elder Brother, knows us? Could he read her face so well because of his love for her?

  153. Follow your instincts. He instinctively knew that the girl was unaware that she was in danger.

  154. Dear Michael,
    This lifeguard was completely focused on and in the moment rather than having shadow thoughts or emotions playing in the background which he could have been listening to without even being completely aware. This is extremely rare and wonderful and allowed him to be completely present to the needs of this girl.
    Best to all,

  155. The key is : power deep within, you may call, inner spirit, intuition, inner source.
    At age 4 I was wading in Lake Erie at a family picnic and gathering with my sisters and cousins when without warning a undertoe current was taking me out to sea.I was gulping water and feeling an end when my Uncle came in shoes clothes and all and draged me out of this rooling undertoe so powerful. For years I was fearful of the water even with classes that my mother had me take at the YMCA. Everyone in the class had to kneel down and pray before I would jump in the water. This fear went on until I felt this inner strength and determination take over my being. So at age 13 I went to the local indoor pool, went in the deep end and proceeded to fight my way across the width of the pool with the life guard on the other side. When I got to the other side he asked me,”Do you know how to swim?” I said yes and my strengh is getting more powerful. I realized then an inner power was filling my being so I could conquer this and anything else. I went on to become a lifeguard, taught swimming to children, and helped so many get over the fear. There is nothing to compare to the inner power we all have when we connect to by being Still and Knowing I AM Who AM. All Love, all power, all beauty, all strengh, all peace is right there within each of us and connects us as one.

  156. I think it has to do with being tapped into one’s Deep Intuition which comes from being fully present in the moment…he saved her by listening to his Deep Intuition/Sixth Sense and by being fully attuned to what his job was at the time.
    Bright blessings,
    G.L. Giles

  157. This is about love of self and others, whatever we do to and for others, we do for to and for ourselves. Whatever we give to others, we give to ourselves. We are all ‘one’. In saving her he very well may have been in touch with the true essence of who he is and what he is about, at the core of each of us is ‘LOVE’, he may have saved himself in seeing her value as a person, he saw his own.

  158. When the lifeguard whistled, the girl heard, but did not see. He realized she was sightless and couldn’t comprehend the danger.
    We often go through life sightless, yet with eyes that see. We go through life deaf, with ears that hear.

  159. He had “awareness and understanding” of the danger based on personal experience; his understanding and sixth sense told him of the danger even though to others no such danger existed; he expressed a genuine, sincere concern to take action, insuring first he would be safe as well as the person he’s going to help. There has to be an element of personal loyalty involved, for if one drowns in the process of rescuing another, what value is the service?

  160. I was a member of a Mountain Rescue Team for some years so I capture the feeling here and I think that’s what this is about. The Lifeguard’s senses absorbed the situation and he had the overwhelming feeling that he had to act swiftly and surely and he followed those feelings and just “Did it” unselfconsciously, nothing really heroic he just did it. In a way he was that girl and ‘he’ had to get back towards shore – quick, very quick. It was an action he was in a way ‘called to take’ and nothing got in the way.

  161. The girl was deaf & could not hear the lifeguard’s whistle. She was also unaware about the potentially dangerous situation she was in. As a physician, I am more concerned about patients who do not show an “appropriate” level of concern about their health problem than about patients who show understanding of their disease & take appropriate steps to manage or treat it.

  162. The lifeguard saw that the girl was unable to react – which was key to his behavior. He followed his ‘gut’ feeling and went in to rescue her.
    He reacted to his gut and went in to save the girl who was having a seizure. He followed his ‘gut’ and reacted instead of having to think about it or what other people would thing if he turned out to be wrong.
    If he had hesitated, it would have been too late by the time he reached her. Timing is critical in some situations and by training ourselved to ‘react’ to our gut instincts as the lifeguard did in this case, can be a matter of life and death.

  163. At the very heart of this story is the lifeguard’s unwavering belief, to the level of instinct, even, in what had to be done. His knowledge of the day, the water, the conditions and the unresponsiveness of the girl all told him that he had to act immediately, without hesitation or second thought. I’m thinking perhaps that the girl might have been deaf, because she might have attempted to paddle back had she understood what she needed to do. Otherwise, how could she have known that her attempts would have futile? The blank stare says to me that she comprehended neither the danger nor what she should have done to rescue herself. Her life, then, was totally in the hands of the lifeguard — and he knew this and acted instinctively accordingly.

  164. My thoughts in reading your lifeguard story was that, there are many times we can see in others where they need help and assistance while they are just going with the flow of it. We very subtly try to alert them but they are so used to status quo they do not see the danger in their life. If they cannot (or will not) respond, we have to use our selflessness and dive in to help their souls. Once they know we are there and would risk ourselves for them, they do respond and don’t fight your help.

  165. Lesson learned: The most profound, life changing results we experience come from the tiniest, seemingly insignificant things …
    It isn’t the “big things” that happen in our lives which define who we are, it’s the small, minute actions and decisions which define whether our lives are successful …
    The smallest acts of kindness or charity repeatedly given to many will have a greater impact than a multi-million dollar donation to any organization.
    Who you are is defined by how you act when no one is watching.

  166. The ocean is the metaphor of life. We are all not equipped to swim through it– the result! we almost get drowned when some kind souls around us with their life- experience,wisdom and humanity come to save our soul.They give us life .What do they get?
    Extraordinary life.Stronger-Steadier – superior.

  167. The lifeguard trusted himself and the intuitive, Divine voice that is inside of himself, that told him she needed help and he acted upon it.

  168. I think “inspired action” is the key to this story. The lifeguard didn’t hesitate to do what he “knew” he should. He didn’t doubt. He didn’t think about what others would think. He acted.

  169. Most people are focused on what they see outside themselves, what we call the “visible”reality. This is not the source and not reality. People are drowning in their belief in this illusion, working hard to make it be what they think they want it to be.
    The way to safety is no where in this visible world.
    The direction of focus has to change.
    What the Life guard “saw” was what was “invisible”— he saw beyond the visible physical circumstances and was open to awareness of the unseen – i.e. undertoe, riptide or whatever – that posed danger to the girl on the raft.
    He was also aware that she had no awareness of the same — many people are unaware they are “drowning”.
    His actions were in atunement with his being attuned to the invisible – inner reality – called many things: spirit, universal life force, Christ consciousness, etc.
    This wisdom goes beyond what is visible, captured in words, defined in the outer realms.
    People may find their way when they connect with this INNER seemingly hidden truth about themselves and realize that it is THE source of everything – within them – not outside of them. With that as the starting point, it becomes true that people can “be, do and have anything they choose” as many people suggest.
    When awareness of the unseen is acknowledged in thought, energized with emotion and inspires actions, good things happen, for our lives and the lives of others.

  170. The Life Guard looking from his stand had the advantage of seeing the full picture. The lesson is that we also need to rise about our challenges in order to see all the possibilities in order to rescue ourselves or others.

  171. The key is to have complete trust and faith in your intuition and instinct, and then to act on them immediately.

  172. She was deaf in the true sense. We all are “deaf” to things we don’t want to hear or face and we should be open to our “deficits” and allow others to “teach” us.

  173. He listened to his “Inner Guidance System”, his Sixth Sense – trusting that something was very wrong, even if it was not apparent through his other five senses.
    We all have that “still, small voice” within us, which when we quiet our minds enough to hear it, tap into a wealth of power and guidance that will allow us to accomplish anything we desire…
    As we’re all meant to.
    Warmly,
    Dan

  174. Total belief in self. Does not matter what the circumstance, when you beleive that your every thought and action are for the highest good of all, you act knowing without a doubt, that all will be well.

  175. Dear Friend,Let me share with you this short story.On a farm a mouse,cow and pic stayed happily together . Oneday the farmer came home with lots of goods from town and as usual mr mouse sneaked inside the house to find out was new in the kitchen and to report to his friends.He was shocked and filled with fear when he saw the farmers wife with a mousetrap in her hand,explaining to her husband how to set it up.He sneaked out and back to the barn and was now sharing his life threatining experience with his friends.The comment from the pic was this ” Your life is in trouble not mine”, the comment from the cow was this ” I am only fed and then used for milk and of no fear to my owner”……A few days later the farmers wife fell ill. The farmer called in the docter and it was discovered that she is busy dying from an incurable decease.He informed the extended family and eveybody made their way to the farm to spend last days with her.The farmer slautered the pig first and for the funeral it was time for the cow. Mr mouse watched from a distance as these was happening??????????
    The lesson is this !!!!!!!!
    If any one of us is threatened it must be a concern to us all!!!!!
    In life you might find that there is people equiped with skills to save lives like the rescuer who inturn had the passion to do so !!!

  176. It is all about trusting yourself and your gut instinct. He could have stopped and considered what others might be thinking – too dramatic, too soon, etc. but he did not. It could have been too late if he did. He trusted in his own knowing that he had to do this and put the girl’s safety first. We all have that gut feeling but we don’t often either hear it or pay attention to it. It’s about trusting ourselves and what we already know.

  177. I believe it has to do with using our intuition and not being afraid of it. That which is inside of us is greater than what our physical eyes can see. The lifeguard knew the dangers of the water and his gut instinct was the girl was in trouble and she was imobilized by fear, even though it may not have registered in her eyes and he listened to his inner self.

  178. I think the key is to changing one’s life…is to change one’s perspective of his/her reality and once who change our perspective we act with faith,confidence and bravery never looking at what the current circumstances tells us with our physical senses but what our spiritual senses tells us…

  179. The lifeguard was trained & prepared to accurately assess the situation. Because he was well trained and educated to his environment he could act confidently and trust his instincts.

  180. He is a brave young man who risked his own life to save a 12 year old girl. Shows chivalry is still alive even though it is a young girl. He must have been sent as God’s angel to save that child. Praise be to God for actions like this.

  181. This kind of relates to what I’ve always told my daughter when she’s away from me, and that is to Always Be Aware of your surroundings, who’s near you , whats near you, your nearest exit etc but more than that It’s about the lifeguard knowing his job inside and out. He could see what others arent trained to see. Whats harmless and safe for us who may not know the sea well enough, or their job for that matter. So I feel the story is about having to know your job well before you can guide others and when you are skilled can share your gift. People don’t always know that they are just riding a current or in a tsunami unless someone can point it out to them.

  182. To me, the story reminds me
    1. that the unseen can be powerful
    2. that focus is imperative
    3. that by training and/or experience, you must truly know what is fundamental about your chosen work, and its environment
    4. that when one is focused on a higher purpose, one’s strength and talents are magnified
    5. and, above all, if you see a powerful need that no one else seems to see but that you can fulfill, go for it. Had the lifeguard held a focus group, a town meeting or sat kibitzing with his buddies as to whether he should save the girl, it would have been too late.
    6. that you never know when it might be too late…so act NOW.

  183. Noticing things that others don’t see,warn people of the danger and if they don’t respond take action to help them.Timing and action with complete certainty can help those caught in unseen undertows.

  184. I think that rather than learning to be selfless, this is about learning to listen to that inner self that speaks to us so quietly and so specificly, and then ACTING on those ‘gut’ instincts BEFORE our brains start the questions that keep us immobile. Its about TRUSTING ourselves and hearing ourselves above the din of everyone else and everythng else.

  185. I think the lifeguard reacted to the girl’s indiference to his warnings. If she would not come away from the danger, for what ever reason, then the risk to her from the danger would continue to increase. At some point she may have become unrescuable by the lifeguard! He acted while he knew he could help, before the risk grew beyond his control, and by doing so he gave her a lesson in being responsive. It is all about action, knowing about the danger and doing nothing would have increased the risk, while action can be benificial it must be applied when the potential for danger is percieved. The girl’s response to warnings changed the responsibility level of the lifeguard and motivated him to immediate action. The fact that he knew he could save her now, but maybe not later, made his choice to act easier.

  186. I believe because the lifeguard was clear and present he was able to see what the little girl could not see…warning her was not enough he had to jump in without hesitation to do what he could to save her…selfless…as we should lay our own life down for another…

  187. She was deaf,, and maybe his sister. or he knew her. he knew she was too far out for her own good, and she couldnt hear the whistle, so she didnt have any fear or reaction when he tried to warn her,,, and when he went out to get her she knew him already so she trusted him to pull her back to shore with no fear,,,

  188. The girl’s blank stare perhaps indicated that she wasn’t expecting anyone to help her, wasn’t feeling like she deserved it. The lifeguard followed his inner guidance and selflessly sprang to rescue her. When we live from inner guidance and selflessly, we are all rescued.

  189. The message I receive from this story is about timing.
    In a matter of seconds change can occur and/or a lifeline appears to allow you to create the change

  190. many of the previous comments written make a lot of sense; selflessness, helping themselves by helping someone else..etc….here is my take on this…
    one must be aware of, and pay attention to the small things in life that can ultimately generate a big “reward”….always be aware of situations and your surroundings…after all, and i repeat, it IS the little things in life that really matter!

  191. The sea has a great influence on your observing and you witness the becoming of people in it more than anywhere else Michael!
    So if he began the rescue and got into difficulties then she, who was given the support and stopped being afraid, became the rescuer. He who was the great and strong learned to take help from someone less than or weaker than himself.

  192. You have to “let go” to be rescued. You have to “know” it is the “knowingness” more than belief. You know like you know like you KNOW. Trust those that are where you want to be, accept their help. Believe it will happen, you don’t have to know the how or when, just believe it will.

  193. my sense is that all things happen perfectly in time and space — that particular lifeguard was on duty for this incident and it was he who was sent (as an angel)to respond and the 12-year old girl was not meant to meet with tragedy at that particular time.

  194. The lifeguard, with his trained eye, saw the girl on a raft that, although fairly close to shore, was drifting beyond the breakers in a depth of water over her head. He had to assume that any person on a flotation device was not a good swimmer, possibly even to the point of not knowing how to tread water. From his command viewpoint and with his experienced understanding of the ocean tides, currents, and wind patterns, he knew whether she was being pushed out to sea, in the doldrums (stalled) in water over her head, or being pushed in toward the breakers. Any of these situations was fraught with risk. These signs precipitated his urgent warning to return to shore. The last sign, her lack of response to his signal, indicated to him that she lacked either the will or the ability to propel herself to the safety of the shore. This told him that she had little to no ocean experience and obviously did not yet realize her precarious situation. His split second decision to enact a rescue to the surprise of the onlookers (and probably even the girl) that day, was based upon his keen awareness of her danger.
    He saw what the others did not: she was in a place that, benign as it appeared, was beyond her ability to deal with and beyond her understanding to recognize. Left to fend for herself she very well might have disappeared quietly under the waves without warning. Or, coming to her senses, she could have panicked and made a rescue much more difficult.
    Some of the most dangerous times for us, as we make our way through this life, are when we find ourself adrift in a comfortable place. To the inexperienced no direct threat may be evident, but a trained eye could see that we are in a depth that is over our head with circumstances that could expose us to dangers for which we are not prepared. All that is worth sending the warning signal to stop the drift, end the pattern, break the habit, before the worst happens. A warning signal unheeded is the red flag that requires urgent action, because it is the confirmation that the one in danger is blind to the truth of the situation and/or unwilling to take measures to avoid the potential catastrophe.
    When we swim through life’s waters, particularly those that are new to us, we need to do so under the eye of one who has the insight to perceive danger (especially when nothing seems to be wrong) and the experience to swim in turbulence when necessary to help.
    As the inexperienced swimmer, the lesson is not to avoid risky situations, but to prepare beforehand for whatever depth we plan to swim. Secondly, and equally importantly, we must be alert to signals and warnings sent by those who have the experience, and respond immediately, even if against our will or “better” judgement.
    For one who is in the role of the lifeguard, there must be an ability to maintain trust in our “gut feel” and never second guess the danger sign of a loved one adrift in waters they are unable to navigate.

  195. The actual lifeguard in question was a college student at the University of Florida in Gainesville. His parents live in Ormond Beach, and he was working as a lifeguard in the Summer. What is not mentioned in the story, was, that he had had really bad grades in his Junior year in college, had been kicked off the football team due to his miserable grade average, and his girlfriend had just left him. He was on an emotional roller coaster, and was contemplating suicide. He showed up at the beach to work, as usual, and stared out at the water, with all of the above on his mind. Being a lifeguard, and an excellent one at that, was the only thing he still knew how to do right! Saving the girl gave him the inspiration not to kill himself, and finish college! He is now in his fourth year of Medical School, and will soon be graduating with top honors! The experience manifested itself to give him a purpose in life. By the way, he ended up marrying the girl’s mother. Her husband, a marine lance corporal, had recently died in an ambush in Iraq.

  196. Knowing, seeing, understanding – all vital to any area of life, but all worthless without doing. The lifeguard took action toward the perceived danger before any else even saw the danger. He knew, he saw, he understood, but most importantly he took action.

  197. Although the girl couldn’t do, what the lifeguard was commanding her to do, she was totally unaware of the danger she was about to encounter.
    The lifeguard didn’t hesitate, and didn’t think about or look to anyone else, for any reason.
    The lifeguard let go of “ego,and wasn’t looking “out there” for anyones approval.
    He was completely “focused”, on the “here and now”, and what he must do to save the 12 year old girl.
    He trusted his soul intuition, “from within”, instead of relying on something on the outside.
    He was in tune, with his own inner being. Then he had to courage to act upon his intuition or instinct. By the way, there has to be love in a beings soul for the person to rescue someone else.

  198. I believe it was the “knowingness” that the lifeguard possessed. He did not question, he did not hesitate to act, he just ACTED. “Knowingness” is more than belief, there was no doubt or hesitation at all.
    Although, the girl did not see the danger, she “knew” to accept the help, to receive what the lifeguard was offering, to save her life even though she could not see or feel the danger herself. She had to let go. Sometimes we ar so frozen with fear, we do not act, but we have to push through the fear and act anyway…Even though other people did not see the danger, or possibly what others felt or thought, the lifeguard acted anyway, because he KNEW the danger..he did not care if others thought he was crazy, or silly, or whatever…he KNEW and he ACTED and he ACTED IMMEDIATELY…

  199. Its about boundaries. Successful people set boundaries and once their boundaries are breached, take decisive action. In my own life, every time that I allowed someone to breach my boundaries, I suffer from it. As well as those that I cared about or cared about me. Example: I allowed my younger son to do as he pleased growing up. Live and Let Live? Now he is paying the price for it as well as my self and grandkids. Each time I would allow him a little slack, the more he would take. I wanted to be his pal, instead of being his dad.
    Once you allow ONE person to cross the boundary line, others form a line behind them!

  200. Everything that we need to succeed in all aspects of life are right in front of us IF…..we are willing to be present and conscious of the very moment we are in. We already have information and knowlege to succeed, we have to be conscious in order to use it. Being conscious allows us to make split decision based upon what we know and what is happening. The universe is there for us, if we chose to work with it. I love the Nike logo “Just Do It” as it exemplifies the meaning of being in the moment.

  201. I felt that from this young girl there was a lesson about drowning in the turmoil of life. We all experience it and want changes to happen, but to make necessary changes you need to be able to open the door and go forward. Your future depends on it. One needs to break the cycle to see the light ahead. Reach out and accept a helping hand. Resolve the past and let go. Take the responsibility and allow the negative energies to drain away. Accept the good in yourself. Live by your values and in what you believe. Watch your world change for the better for you and all who are a part of your life.
    Believe.

  202. I forgot to mention, that the lifguard radioed in a 2 second message to the nearby lifeguard station first, and then grabbed a life buoy, slung it over his shoulder, before going in to save the girl. He had to secure his own safety first. He he were to drown, he could save anyone else.
    I took a flight when my son was a baby. The airline stewardess told me, that if anything happened, to use the oxygen mask on myself first, and my baby second. This was difficult for me to grasp because I had always put him, and his needs first.
    Although the girl couldn’t do, what the lifeguard was commanding her to do, she was totally unaware of the danger she was about to encounter.
    The lifeguard didn’t hesitate, and didn’t think about or look to anyone else, for any reason.
    The lifeguard let go of “ego,and wasn’t looking “out there” for anyones approval.
    He was completely “focused”, on the “here and now”, and what he must do to save the 12 year old girl.
    He trusted his soul intuition, “from within”, instead of relying on something on the outside.
    He was in tune, with his own inner being. Then he had to courage to act upon his intuition or instinct. By the way, there has to be love in a beings soul for the person to rescue someone else.

  203. Please forgive me, but my keys are sticking, and computer is freezing.
    I forgot to mention, that the lifeguard radioed in a 2 second message to the nearby lifeguard station first, and then grabbed a life buoy, slung it over his shoulder, before going in to save the girl. “He had to secure his own safety first”. If he were to drown, he couldn’t save anyone else’s life.
    I took a flight when my son was a baby. The airline stewardess told me, that if anything happened, to use the oxygen mask on myself first, and my baby second. This was difficult for me to grasp because I had always put his needs before mine.
    Although the girl couldn’t do, what the lifeguard was commanding her to do, she was totally unaware of the danger she was about to encounter.
    The lifeguard didn’t hesitate, and didn’t think about or look to anyone else, for any reason.
    The lifeguard let go of “ego,and wasn’t looking “out there” for anyones approval.
    He was completely “focused”, on the “here and now”, and what he must do to save the 12 year old girl.
    He trusted his soul intuition, “from within”, instead of relying on something on the outside.
    He was in tune, with his own inner being. Then he had the courage to act upon his intuition or instinct. By the way, there has to be love in a beings soul for the person to rescue someone else.

  204. The darling lifeguard was staying in the now, which is a power place to be. No ego, no judgment just observing with intent to his present job at hand. He remained connected to all that is and saw as clear as day what was happening, it is only through the place of NOW that you can fully understand and be connected. He reacted out of his knowing. The girl had no choice to be in the now because that was all there was for her at that time. She did not resist and make matters worst which would have given power to what was happening. It’s all about staying in the now, a place of power, spirit and connection.
    Namaste

  205. They key I believe is being “aware” or “awake”.
    The lifeguard took his duty to heart and by doing so, he had momentarily ceased his “ego” activities and saw only the truth. In this case, the truth that the girl would be dragged by the undertow into the deep sea any minutes; therefore, time was of essence.
    If the lifeguard had not put his own ego aside, he would be debating the “validity” of the “potential” undertow that he “thought” he saw. By then, the girl would have been sucked into the ocean and the Lifeguard would have no choice but to call in the boat to do the rescuing with the girl screaming in panic.
    As I mentioned before in my past post, we are in the habit of losing/drowning in our own dream world (or our own personal interpretation of what we see) that we forgot to see the basic truth that are starring at our face.
    Our predicament that we all share among the human race is our constant struggle with our own ego. It is this struggle that make it pointless to judge anyone. It is like a blind man judging another blind man for tripping over a chair.
    Sometimes, in a moment of clarity, like when the Lifeguard was performing his duty, or when you were doing something that was important to you, that you lose your ego for a brief moment. It is this moment that we see God in its glory and yet we are still too naive too recognize it.
    It is only when we lose our naiveness in this clarity of truth that we can begin to embark on constantly seeking the truth.
    Bon Voyage to those who are already walking the path!

  206. The lifeguard is like God. He is always watching out for us and He sees the “unseen” dangers. The girl was unaware of the danger of her circumstances (the place she had put herself in). God often tries to warn us, but we often don’t hear or listen. God pulls us out of danger, sometimes by closing doors. Since we might not even know we are in danger, we don’t realize what is going on. God saves us many times from circumstances that we have not even been aware of.We float through life relying on our own instincts and wants and getting in over our heads instead of looking to the One source to give us direction.

  207. There is only one other word I can think of which is “determination”. The lifeguard was determined.

  208. I don’t understand your posting…I just posted and it appears with someone else name on it…I am presuming that each post is inbetween the lines…this is my post and I am Marlene….
    The darling lifeguard was staying in the now, which is a power place to be. No ego, no judgment just observing with intent to his present job at hand. He remained connected to all that is and saw as clear as day what was happening, it is only through the place of NOW that you can fully understand and be connected. He reacted out of his knowing. The girl had no choice to be in the now because that was all there was for her at that time. She did not resist and make matters worst which would have given power to what was happening. It’s all about staying in the now, a place of power, spirit and connection.
    Namaste

  209. That when we focus on how life is occuring for others we feel and sense their joy, needs and take actions that fulfill their part of the divine reality that we are meant too in each other’s journey. fulfillment for all without judgement.

  210. I believe the key is INTUITION. The lifeguard paid attention to his gut instinct that the girl was in trouble – he took action and did what he knew he had to do to bring her back to safety. He was listening to the “whisperings of the soul”.

  211. I cannot provide you with any deep spiritual metaphors here. He saved that girl because he saw a danger which the girl was completely unaware of. Whatever it was, a shark, an undertow, of the start of an rip tide, he recognized that this girl was not only unaware of any danger, she was unable to respond to his warning whistle, because she was deaf. He was doing his job and being selfless. We should all be as aware of one another as that lifeguard was, and we should all be willing to rescue someone in danger especially those who don’t perceive that there is danger. Do unto to others as we would have done unto us.

  212. The most important concept behind the story was the lifeguards ability to act, without delay, question or doubt, and without regard to what others would think of him, on what he knew to be the right action to take, the right thing to do.

  213. I cannot provide you with any deep spiritual metaphors here. He saved that girl because he saw a danger which the girl was completely unaware of. Whatever it was, a shark, an undertow, of the start of an rip tide, he recognized that this girl was not only unaware of any danger, she was unable to respond to his warning whistle, because she was deaf. He responded that was because he realized without actin she could never know that she was even in danger until it was too late. He was doing his job and being selfless. We should all be as aware of one another as that lifeguard was, and we should all be willing to rescue someone in danger especially those who don’t perceive that there is danger. Do unto to others as we would have done unto us.

  214. We cannot always see what is glaringly obvious to others. Some situations are best left for us to ‘save ourselves’ without intervention but there are times when someone stepping in to help us will truly count as a rescue because delays on our part of meking decisions, not seeing the situation for what it is will certainly pull us under.

  215. Awareness, Knowing, Oneness. And allowing our true connection with Source to flow through us in any given moment to connect with who we really are.

  216. I think this story is telling us to trust our instincts. That even if everyone around us does not see the severity of the situation, we must have the courage to listen to our inner selves and do what that little voice is telling us. We are so consumed with all the “noise” around us (what will people think, what if I look foolish or over cautious, or what if I am wrong) that we sometimes ignore what we “know” to be true, because we are second guessing our basic instincts. If we can just shut out that external noise and listen to our souls, we can save a life, comfort a friend or make a wise business decision. Many times in life we find ourselves drowning in our own self-created drama. If we can recognize that we control how we react to difficult situations, we can come to realize that we also have the ability to find peace and move forward by listening to our soul. The lifeguard teaches us that sometimes others do not recognize the danger they are in until it is too late. If you see that a loved one or a stranger is in need, you could save them before they even realize that they needed saving. Many times in my life I have known that something just did not feel right, but I second guessed my instincts and told myself I was being over dramatic. I have slowly come to realize that if I am focused and listen, the answers were right in front of me, even when others were telling me I was over reacting.

  217. How to recognize (see) any lack of understanding and realizing how dangerous that lack of understanding can be.
    How to recognize (see) spiritual and financial wealth, that may, be right in front of us, without our acknowledging it. We must trust our intuition to see it.
    This is how we can save ourselves so that we can save others.

  218. You have to listen to what your heart and instincts tell you.
    If you do not pay attention to the little things, subtleties,
    You may miss many Blessings that were meant for Your gain.
    Do not miss, during life’s struggles, stand firm in Yourself and your own convictions,
    Do not be tossed about by other’s opinions. Listening to the words between the sounds gives wonders, abundance, more good than you can imagine.
    To be blessed and able in the small things, means you are ready for more responsibilities and Blessings in the future.

  219. Hi I think the essence of this story is that you’ve gat to learn to listen to your inner voice and be willing to act! Once you have been intuitively clued in to a certain situation or action that needs to be made, you should act and not leave room for doubt and procrastination to rob you of the joy of experiencing help from your inner self. God has so empowered us like himself and knows distinctively that there are moments in life when we need to “JUST DO IT”. We are creative beings by our very nature and make up. God made us in his image and likeness. This being so, we need to become more attuned with our higher self and become accustomed to being guided by the higher force in and around us, as oppose to only being guided by our “limited known” self. The essence of the story is when in trouble TRUST THAT THE HIGHER POWER ALREADY RESIDENT WITHIN YOU WILL GIVE YOU THE EXACT ACTION/WORDS/THING NEEDED TO DO OR SAY! How else will the lifeguard had known to jump in at once. His inner being clued him in – given the circumstances – in an instant, that something needed to be done, and NOW! Without hesitation. So I say listen to your inner self; learn to become attune to it; so that in times of crisis, you will be able to TRUST, ACT AND DO WHAT IT SUMMONS YOU TO DO – Without question, or hesitation. That’s my 5 cents.

  220. The lifeguard story brings to my mind a discussion I picked up on on a teleconference call not too long ago about outer and inner energy.
    First, don’t spend all your time and energy on outer circumstances. Break the pre-occupation with the outside. Say to yourself: I am in control of me – how do I want to be. When you are clear about your intention, then pay attention to the inside and not the outside. Then and then only can you reach your vision.

  221. Briefly, The Life Guard was focused on his job and hence it was a case of preparation meeting opportunity

  222. During the course of our daily lives we are looking for what we think we should be seeing and not able to comprehend when this is not happening.The way to overcome this is to view our daily lives with a sense of wonder and look for ways of how we can help others with caring and love. Even if it turns out incorrect you have still given caring and love and it will always come back to you.

  223. “What the Lifeguard Saw” The lifeguard saw what was missing from the equation. What was missing was the girls response.
    How can we help ourselves or others when we are not aware that there is a problem or potential problem in the first place?
    More importantly, let’s say we have been alerted by our instinct/intuition but choose to ignore it.
    In that moment of ignoring we have chosen not to respond to a situation that was calling for our attention. While it is true that not everything or everyone requires our immediate attention… we will no doubt encounter situations or people that do need our immediate response.
    In situations such as the one with the 12 year old girl, RESPONDING NOW and not one moment later is crucial.
    It was the girls own inability to respond (for whatever reason) that alerted the lifequard that she was in danger.
    And so, how can we avoid the circumstance in the first place?
    Awareness through keen observation is important. Yet, awareness in and of itself is not enough. So let’s say you are awake aware alert. You are paying keen attention to what is happening in the moment.
    Suddenly,you notice that this person you are observing is in danger. Because you trust this instinct/intuition within you and the impulse which arises from it you leap immediatly into action. No thought required. It is as if an invisible force within you takes over. All you have done is to ALLOW it.
    So what is the essence? The essence as I see it comes from a distillation of Attention, Awareness and Allowing the Intuitive/Instinctive presence within to flow forth into ones actions. In moments when I allow this it is my experience that all things line up to bring about the most beneficial results for everyone involved.
    I don’t know if I came close to the answer that you were looking for, but I do know this…I gained alot out of participating in this experience. It was time well spent. Thank you Dr. Norwood.
    Wanda

  224. He did it without judgement. He didn’t care who she was, what religion, race, age, or sexual orientation. He just did it.

  225. I guess that the lesson behind the story of the lifeguard and the 12 year girl is manifold.First,no one ever knows your job better than you do.Second,you don’t have to share people’s views to be successful.Third,the first impression is always the correct one.Now in this case I think that the lifeguard could sense that the girl was deaf which nobody else thought about.In terms of soul knowledge,we can say that this story is inspiring because it pushes you to re-vivify those parts of you that no longer listen to you:a hidden strength,a powerful aquaintance to help you,a special skill,a possible dream you once had,a divine twilight of inspiration that only passes through you but you have to catch it…etc LISTEN to the depth of your soul and TRUST it,I feel this is what the story is about.

  226. Allow someone to save you. There may be someone who can rescue you from being dragged under. Sometimes we can’t do it all alone. Take their hand, their Wealty Soul hand…

  227. Laws of the universe: courage, speed, action and benefit for others. Always hold your fellow neighbor at a higher level than your self, expect nothing in return except the self satisfaction that comes from being a true servant unto others. The universe detests cowards for they are full of fear and selfishness for their own being. This young man showed little consideration for his own safety and well-being in a courageous feat of bravery. God has put us here for a specific purpose. This purpose is not to bail every individual out of their own grief but distribute kindness to all in the effort that through your kindness and positive actions one might promote others to better their own lives. We can not control the reaction of others toward us; only our actions and reactions toward others. In every phase of your life whether it be your love life, personal life or business life if and when you see an opportunity in whatever area it is be courageous, quick to act, selfless in all matters; your blessings will flow and life will reward you handsomely. Many tend to ponder the what if’s and get no where! True happiness can only be derived and achieved through the making of others happy first.
    Peace and God bless
    C1

  228. The little girl was deaf (or perhaps autistic) and the lifeguard knew it. How did he know? Maybe she is is sister or a friend of his family, which to him,would add yet another level to his responsibility. One of the lessons that life has taught me is never to give up on a loved one, even if they appear not to hear you or to sense your love.

  229. 1. There is a “knowing”, beyond science and other components of so-called “reality”, that exists in our most-alert awareness. However, although most of us have glimpsed moments of such knowing and awareness, we often do not know how (a) to regain that ability once seen and (b) to actively create and maintain it to achieve a more fulfilling life.
    2. Without that alert awareness being active within us, and without our willingness to once-and-for-all INVEST in becoming responsible for our lives and in helping others in need (as did the lifeguard who undertook lifeguard training), we can continue to live out humdrum lives relatively unaware of our OWN suffering from not feeling fulfilled AND, especially, a similar untold suffering of our loved ones. We just can’t SEE it.
    3. Our whole future could be in jeopardy, yet our lack of awareness and our lack of the momentum gained through actively creating our future could have us in immediate danger of losing everything (or losing loved ones in trouble) and we would be missing what was right before our eyes.
    4. We need some kind of training to lift us past the day-to-day distractions (especially of struggling to earn our “necessities”) that keep us from living a rich and abundant life, the potential for which is (and always has been) immediately before us during our every waking hour.
    4. We need to study and learn how to access and DEVELOP our innate ability to be sufficiently aware of both OUR OWN needs and the needs of others around us.
    The lifeguard HAD received that kind of training of his awareness. He had learned the “signs” that told him when it was time for him to step in NOW. And, as a healthy, strong and able person, in mind and body, he was equipped with the wherewithal to remain both responsible for his own welfare, AND also be responsible for and causative over any dangerous moments that those within his charge might ever experience. He had learned ALL that he would need to know in order to guarantee fulfilling the purpose of his job.
    We will truly fulfill our purpose if we choose to obtain a kind of training that involves awakening our awareness and taking us into a condition where we can remain responsible for our own welfare, as well as be responsible for and causative over engaging the spirits and lifting the awareness of our loved ones.
    Our lives will then be able to remain operational and appropriately balanced as we share our gifts and strengths while “loving our neighbors as our selves”.
    Peace

  230. The “KEY” to this story, I think would be….to live more like the lifeguard did in his affirmative action. To not only visually see all that is around us, but to really look at everything around us with all of our 5 senses. To really be “in-Tune” with nature and our surroundings to not only enjoy and appreciate life to the fullest, but to learn from what we are seeing, feeling, thinking, hearing, speaking,and even smelling, with our 5 senses all working together to forsee potential danger or disaster and even pleasure. Bottom Line to this “Key” is to be totally “Intune” with yourself so that you can “see” what others cannot and in turn benefit greatly for yourself and be there for others as most are “Blind” to their surroundings. P.S. This is pretty fun! Great thinking tool!

  231. I believe we are all born with the gift of intuition but we allow ourselves to become so conditioned by society and the opinions of others that we fail to listen to our inner voice. Intuition or instinct, comes to us in a flash. Like the lifeguard, we need to learn to listen to our instinct and act upon it immediately, without hesitation and without concern for what other people may think. When we do this we will see opportunities around us everyday to reach out and help others and ourselves.

  232. micheal,
    After reading this piece the second time,i think i know what is being defined aptly here.
    Insight and courage
    the lifeguard had clearly the insight and vision to see that the girl was in trouble and the courage to take a decision and act on it without minding what anybody thought or felt and without waiting for attention

  233. I’m thinking that the lifeguard recognized that the girl’s response to his warning indicated that she had a mental deficiency that prevented her from understanding and/or dealing with the danger she was in.(Perhaps the girl was his sister or maybe he knew from his own experience with a family member who would have reacted the same way.) He knew in a flash that she could soon be in over her head and he took immediate action.
    The lesson here is that we have what we need within us to take action to “save” ourselves and others. It may be burried deep in our subconscious, but it is there for us to call upon when we need it.

  234. He became one with the situation, totally merging into the Oneness of all. You just know what to do and you do it.

  235. Thank You for sharing this awesome story. My comment is the lifeguard is in a state of AWARENESS. He retreats into his inner self and becomes an observer and an actor to the scene. As an observer, he became aware of the lifeguard’s next course of action. The key therefore is AWARENESS to give SERVICE of which most people are not.
    Blessings to you and all souls across the Universe.
    Fuzi Hanim
    Malaysia

  236. The essence of the story is the lifeguard’s complete belief in his connection to the little girl as a part of himself.

  237. Is it the knowing, the listening to instinct and then acting on it without hesitation that makes it so remarkable, a miracle? so many people “think” about their instincts which makes them doubt them and sometimes makes them not react when they should have, and knew they should have and this person did not, he just followed that instict immediately?

  238. to live is to grow, to grow is to evolve from nutrience. nutrience is like fuel, the ignition towards doing.
    a soul or fuel coming from the heart, ignighted by love,,, eliminates the ego and replaces the being with the care and wellbeing for others. the words of love are a fasawde… the subtle love action of … doing for others without expecting anything in return.
    from the heart.
    such state is enough.
    no material thing or action is necessary when love is the soul drive or fuel.
    all else negative disipates and is non existante.

  239. What this shows to me is that the Lifeguard responded to his inner guidance system also known as intuition, the Comforter (as described in the Bible) in other words basically acting on the information which is received through the connection that we all have with each other. He kept his goal in mind regardless of any other appearances. His capable, selfless, loving and competent action saved the day and the girl!

  240. I missed it by a mile Michael! My thoughts were on “Gratitude”!
    I girl so young must have had parents nearby and I can, or perhaps I CAN’T; imagine the gratitude her parents had for that lifeguard. I can imagine them crying with gratitude towards him.
    There you have my thoughts on it and I did study it, very hard!
    Love and best wishes,
    Frank.

  241. The lifeguard knew that a few second later would be too late what he had to do and no one can stop him.. He saw the power of the undercurrent and the believe and trust in himself that made him focus only on saving the little girl.

  242. The INSTINCT can be refered to the LifeGuard. The 12yr old girl can be compared to the Body.
    Most of the time we do things out of instinct or gut feelings.
    Instinct knew that the Body was in trouble and reached out to help.
    The connection is so intense that the action of the Lifeguard was immediate and he didnt really care about what people or the Child thought.
    He just dived and did what was needed. This is what our instinct our SOUL do – it forces or pushes us in the right direction.

  243. The lifeguard was doing his job. He was alert to what was going on. No one else was. He saw what needed to be done (he was trained to observe and react/rescue) and did it immediately, without having to think about it. Maybe he saw that there was no reaction in the little girl’s eyes because she had a stroke or ? He needed to do his job and save her. He did what he was trained to do. Immediately! He was not depending on anyone else to do his job. His job was to protect the people in the water, even when they went beyond their limits. God is watching over us, always, in all ways, no matter what.

  244. “Perpective” – Be careful what we perceive as “fun” or “safe”. Sometimes we don’t see the “whole picture”, because our view can be narrowed; like the view of the passager side mirror on a car: “things are closer than they appear”! The young life guard could see the “whole field of vision”, and was very aware of the under current’s pull of the water the young girl was not!

  245. Many times in our life we have the gut instict to do something, but inturn we let it slip by, as we feel it may make ourselves look silly etc. This is from our ego. By this lifeguard following his gut instict he indeed saved a life. The lifegard was acting from his core essense of himself. How beautiful!!!!

  246. Dear Michael
    Saving the day and saving the situation ; chance = being on the wright place on wright time . I was an observer /translator and participant of a business meeting once. Two sides agreeing on all but seller insisted on receiving $ 30k advance payment / deposit in order to start the long term agreement. This demanded put and abrupt stop on the business process . Buying sides did not agree on this deal. I had observed all in without a comment until both sides said it was not possible to have meaningful agreement and started to close their files and getting ready leave the meeting. Two sides being from different countries it was not possible for them to get back in near future may be not ever again.
    At this point I said to seller who demanded up front payment , he said if any ting happens it would cover part of his expenses . I said “you are right on it but what if this man had died and could not continue with this agreement naturally . Would you keep his money . As you know he desperately want ‘s to do business with you? You are a God fearing man as I know what would be your action? He said he will return the money . I said if you are going to return it why are you demanding it now” Seller stood up slowly and extended his had to buyer and said I have learned that I can”t ask anything that I have not earned and thanked me for saving the day and deal.
    Your life guard story reminded me of timely response and responcibility very important.

  247. Duty of the life guard is to safe life he did his job with all his heart,so what ever each one of us has a duty to do we must do it whole heartedly not thinking of oneself and do not harm anyone.To realise what our duty is towards God can help us achive our goal faster and in a better ways.

  248. My comment of The Future Possibilities showed up under Michelle Tweedie’s name and a post from someone else showed up under my name….?

  249. The girl was deaf/blind or has some other kind of handicap preventing her from understanding the situation she was in and/or the lifeguard signals, so the only way to actually help her was to get her out of the eventual future potential life threatening trouble.
    It is usually very hard to percept all of the vital details of a situation and almost impossible to have all the experience required to perform always the most reasonable action, but the unconditional sticking to wise procedures well designed by others having years of experience, even in case where own reasoning doesn’t necessary indicate any need for action, can be life saving and of huge value. So it makes sense in such cases to become active even if most others won’t necessary understand the need of it to the degree of eventually making a fool of oneself in the eyes of spectators.
    If everyone of us were doing the own job as thorough as the lifeguard did, there will be sure much less trouble in this world.

  250. We are all ONE…we are all creators who are creating the human experience….therefore we all are connected and affect one another in all ways…at all times.
    The lifeguard knew the danger of the young girls “unknowning” of the danger. His purpose as a lifeguard is to serve those who need their lives saved.
    Our purpose as human spirits is to grow spiritually as ONE consciencness to enable humanity to realize and create our potential not let it be overtaken by the power of the waves and be destroyed.
    We who know about “oneness of spirit” (like the lifeguard) need to help those who are endangered because they “DONT KNOW” (the young girl)

  251. Wow what a soul touching awareness it is to be tuned in to your soul purpose and to not be affected by outside appearances eg. of the 12 year old girl’s expression and/or swimmers to go beyond their opinions and believe in your instints shows very strong character and a soul that knows exactly his own direction and not anyone else idea of what his destiny is required to do this time round and therefore affect his whole evolution and and ultimately help everyone elses to evolve.
    Hear Hear

  252. The ocean is just like the universe there are many forces
    at work understood as well as
    uncomprehendable which will crush
    you if you ignore them weather you
    know them or not.

  253. I believe the essence is that with any situation in our life, we can choose to drown or see people drown around us but we need to ACTION to change the course of a decision. The lifeguard actioned on his instints as he saw the girl not reacting to the dangerous situation, but his actions helped her. However, her lack of reaction is a metaphor to when we are stuck in a rut, but the actions of others and ourselves can make us move to a better position in life. Love also helps!
    She wasn’t deaf was she??? he he

  254. The Universe helps those who cannot help themselves and both helper and the one helped are changed forever.

  255. I call it ‘loving instinct’, like today when my son continued coughing when he woke up and wanted to do nothing more than to go to school. Although I knew he would be happy just going to school i knew instinctually, that he needed more than that. He was taken to daycare to lay and rest with fluids and medicine instead. His grandma called that morning and asked if she could go pick him up, and take care of him the rest of the day. Although he was just fine at daycare, i knew by my ‘loving instinct’ that grandma would get him healthier sooner. So off he went, and now both grandma and he are doing much better. As with the lifeguard and the girl we carry an instinct to care for total strangers and loved ones alike without much thought to our own safety or other consequence. As if a sense of duty within us, allows us to overcome any sense of fear or judgement. Giving fully and satially on instinct.

  256. Love is a doing word, it requires action.
    The lifeguard did not wait for confirmation of his instinct but acted immediatly.Trust your instincts when bassed on knowledge.
    The lifeguard helped her to safty. He gave her what she needed to enable her to help herself.
    The lifeguard did not place himself in danger but went prepared.
    The lifeguard phoned in a message making himself accountable.
    The girl acknowledged her own weekness and accepted the help of the lifeguard. Accept a gift from others with grace.
    She was not too proud to accept help. Pride goes before a fall.
    The girl did not argue but put her trust in the lifeguard to help her. She listened to and trusted in the lifeguards wisdom, knowledge and ability to help.

  257. I believe that the girl had the handicap of not being able to “hear”, therefore, she did not respond to thewhistle blowing. I also believe that the lifeguard knew this, or knew of some commun ication skills the girl did not have. I also think that the lifeguard has/had what we all have at times a psychic ability to “just know” LIKE WHEN WE HEAR THE PHONE, AND WERE JUST THINNKING ABOUT AUNT MARY, AND THEN AUNT MARY IS THE CALLER.
    I ALSOI BELIEVE that this was his job, and to consider, rip tides, sharks. or that the thing she was floating on could have been obvious to him as not the most stable, floating device or promising.
    with prior experiences, thle time of day, the signals the girl did not give back, it was automatic,, and last but not least perhaps the magnificient “HOLY SPIRIT” guided him and told him exactly what to do and why. subconsciously, or otherwise, “he just knew”
    AND HE DID WHAT WAS NATURAL WITHOUT NEEDING TO THINK,, OR EVALUATE, THAT WAS ALL DONE IN A MATTER OF SECONDS, THOUGHTS, ANSWERS AND REACTIONS.

  258. We all have an Inner Knowing and if we are in touch with that Knowing, we will see things that others may not be aware of. The lifeguard had that Inner Guidance and acted upon it.

  259. I think this lifeguard saving this girl who was not aware she was in danger represents how we as humans are on a path of life we think is safe and we know what we are doing and where we are going. Only to find out later, sometimes years later we look back on our life and find that certain experiances, good and bad happened for a reason because our God, who loves us watches over us and protects us from harm that we as humans don’t even see, sort of like an undertow the this girl was about to be pulled into. Although we question why things happen at the time and are confused and sometimes get are heart broke. It isn’t until years later we see the outcome of our lives played out and see how the hand of God was present in each incident. If we as humans can just realize this now in the present instead of questioning and wondering why things happen, but know that our God, who is our Father and watches over us has a bigger and better plan for our lives and knows what is best, we would stop struggling with the whys and how comes and just enjoy living in the present and know our God is our lifeguard for life.

  260. We all have an Inner Knowing and if we are in touch with that Knowing, we will see things that others may not be aware of. The lifeguard had that Inner Guidance and acted upon it.

  261. Life is dangerous on our own. Through personal experience and learning from others we all learn how to live life to it’s fullest. Much like reinventing the wheel, the girl was about to learn a lesson that many before her have learned. That lesson could easily have cost her life We need to be teachers and each of us share our own life’s stories so others do not have to repeat our mistakes.
    It also often takes a coach “lifeguard” that is removed from the situation that can access where we are and the problems that we ourselves may not be aware of.

  262. The child still maintained “their belief that everything is going to be fine” and the lifeguard, was gifted with insight to see clearly what lies ahead of the child and empowered his sense of protecting the child. He knew and “believed” in his abilities and never hesitated to contemplate potential fears which would have caused him to hesitate. He empowered himself and the child was empowered by their individual belief systems.

  263. The key to what saves us or others is trust, knowing without a doubt and thus taking action, being in alignment and recognizing it as such, doing the right thing (integrity, “Pono” in Hawaiian) because our gut feeling or inner sense thrusts us. Bless the lifeguard who saw, recognized the dangerously helpless state the 12 year old was in. The fact she did not respond is commonly attributed to the acceptance of being in whatever condition, almost like accepting the moment of death. Trust rescues.

  264. A true leader knows his/her responsibilities, in his cells as well as in his mind, and reacts instantly when situations arise triggering need for action, regardless danger to himself. Generals Washington, Grant, Eisenhower and Patton knew this, as have some politicians, and innumerable doctors, factory workers, and myriads of common citizens.

  265. He stayed totally focused, and then trusted and followed his instinct, his internal knowingness, and took immediate action on that guidance.

  266. A lifeguard, by training, is alert to dangers in the environment and has skills to respond to them.Maybe even save lives. Nevertheless, he would only attempt to rescue those who clearly demonstrated they were unable to rescue themselves.When the 12 year old girl clearly did not respond to the lifeguards warnings to get out of harms way, the lifeguard finished his assessment , went into rescue mode, and pulled the little one to safety.
    Though it takes bravery to swim through a school of sharks to save someone, it takes a brief moment of thoughtful assessment to know whether it is your rescue to make.

  267. The little girl communicated her need for help in a fraction of a second to the lifeguard,who being receptive to her signal,responded immidiately.Explanation only possible in spiritul
    terms.

  268. Funny… I had a conversation just today which came immediately to mind when I read this email. I said that times have changed and everyone is under great pressures, coming from many areas. I said we are all drowning in our hectic lives. But it is human nature to jump in and save a person in trouble. So despite all the negativity and chaos we must endure and all the coping mechanisms that lead us to wrongdoing or thoughts of misery, at the core we are all GOOD spirited people. If we would choose that perspective our lives would take on new meaning.In this story, the lifequard would acknowledge that he is a spirit in body and the chlld would recognize the spirit that saved her.

  269. I think this story tells how a simple act can change a person’s path in life even if that person is unaware of the effect that events could have on them or too afraid or tired to make the change themself. It may be a simple act that goes unnoticed by the crowd that we bestow to another that can have huge effects on their life’s outcome.

  270. I think it is about living from our Essence. Learning to trust and follow that sense of knowing inside. Too often our ego, intellect or emotional reactions block us from living and expressing our Essence. The times that I have helped others the most, wasn’t when I was consciously trying to be altruistic. It was when I was Being, expressing, living and choosing from my Essence or Spirit. I have never regretted listening to it. But I have regretted my decisions when I allowed other people’s opinion or expectations or my own fear to discount that guidance. I am then discounting my true self. Our priceless gift to the world is to Be and express who we truly are. And experiencing our Essence or Spirit is the Universe’s most precious gift to us.
    Lauren Kennedy

  271. The lifeguard had used his “idle” time to study currents and characteristics of the beach that he was charged to watch. He quickly recognized that the raft had passed into a dangerous zone, and would soon be at the point of no return. He knew that his skill and strength could be effective at the current time and that if he waited that disaster was a certainty.
    In life, it is altogether too easy to drift along, oblivious to subtle changes that we are in danger from forces that we don’t fully understand. Keeping access to a mentor or mastermind team who are willing to point out the dangers of our habits or position is vital until our awareness is at a level that we can recognize situations and handle them on our own.

  272. The lifeguard had done his personal work and was at peace with himself thus he could see what others could not; that the girl was drowning. She did not see that she was on the wrong path and that is why she showed no fear but the lifeguard new and rescued her from the way she was going and brought her back to change her direction in life.

  273. When you observe something that doesn’t seem right, and you absolutely feel it in your gut, assess what you feel and without hesitation, go with that instinct. It usually turns out that your first instinct is the right one. It is when we question it, that we often make the wrong choice.

  274. In a blink we can have the answers as we trust instinctively the integrity of the heart. Not allowing distractions of others and opinions and fears to destort truth that can be revealed when one is still. To step out in faith, taking action instintively reveals the miracle.

  275. We are all God. We are all the one same being. The lifeguard was acting on the highest dharma by rescuing the girl. There was no small self only God. No self. No problem.

  276. We are all God. We are all the one same being. The lifeguard was acting on the highest dharma by rescuing the girl. There was no small self only God. No self. No problem.

  277. Dr.
    I am no where near as intelligent nor probably as studied on lifes issues as many of your other readers are, so therefore probably going to be the farthest from what you are looking for. When I read the first post all that was said was true but I am not one to try to judge a story before I get the facts. My mother always told me that it is better to appear a fool rather than to open my mouth and remove all doubt. This particular story opens much to be learned, and many of the comments that I read were good ones, but until as Paul Harvey says now you know the rest of the story, we will not be able to follow your line of thought to its fullest elements. One can only hope that out of the many lessons to be learned he can get the correct one that you are pointing at. Now, as many have said we can see that the ocean is significant to life and the young lady to our own persons it would only hold true then that how this young lady related to the life guard would be how we relate our lives to God or Jesus. But if I were really looking for depth in this little tale it would be of the people who drift along letting life go as it might, in other words funning in the sun, or enjoying pleasures that as this young lady was doing at a seemingly innocent level and not paying any mind to what is really under the surface. The individuals that you tell about on the beach are the people that surround each and every one of us, who also live in the same or close to the same life of funning in the sun. If this is the case and I haven’t missed your point then all would have seemed normal and the life guard a little extreme. The danger was not apparent to her, or to the folks on the beach, for all lack the experience and or knowledge of the turmoil’s and currents that lie beneath the surface. It also may be that they know but they could be oblivious to them and or they just don’t care. The greatest piece that I see here is that God is the only one that knows exactly the dangers that lie around us. It may be that you are asking for his guidance but don’t understand the warning whistles, therefore we just sit idle doing nothing. It is truly said that God will guide us through lifes raging seas and bring us to safety but we also need to trust him and allow him to work through us and in us; by doing this we help him accomplish this for others also. In proverbs Solomon tells us that wisdom is to be searched for and this would only lead one to believe that we must always be on the look out for that door or window that God has opened for us to go through, to learn and to grow. The knowledge and wisdom best gained will always be gained by the searching of our selves and our experiences. God uses many forms of transportation in which to proclaim his glory. The one that comes to my mind here is of the selfless exposure from this young life guard towards another human being. Now I am sure of the eventual effect that this had on many lives, of the young ladies appreciation and gratitude toward the young man and also her family. Through this experience we can see many Godly traits, love, selflessness, and servitude to name just a few. Look to God always with faith and trust in the unseen and he shall make to be seen by you.
    Thank you and peace to all
    C.1.

  278. Its about insight. Deep insight. The lifeguard saw some things that led him to conclude what was happening under water and realize that most people, including the potential victim, do not have that knowledge. This insight helped him determine the need to react quickly.
    The insight could have come from eduction, experience or an instinctive reaction based on subconscious/spiritual “knowledge” or some combination of those.

  279. The lifeguard and the little girl were both living in the present moment, she immersed in her surroundings, and he intensely aware of his.
    That is why he was quick to respond to the situation he saw she was in by warning her with his whistle, but realizing that she was deaf followed protocol, made a call, and then swam out to rescue her from imminent danger.
    Other swimmers would be aware of his warning whistles, but as they saw it was not directed at them, ignored it.
    The essence of this story is to live in the present moment with all your senses alive and your responsibilities – to yourself
    and to others – crystal clear.

  280. He gave his full attention to the moment of “now” and consciously knew what he had to do.

  281. He remained in the moment of “NOW” and knew he had to give his full attention to the little girl to save her. He did not doubt himself as he listened to his inner voice.

  282. Action. The Lifeguard acted on his intuition. Too often many of us do not trust our intuition because the thoughts that come to our minds remove us from our perceived comfort zone and so we become doubt filled. In that instance of doubt we may change the outcome of any given situation permanently. Had the lifeguard put off his action even by one minute it may have been too late to save the child. When we learn to trust our intuition implicitly and act immediately when we are shown opportunities, we will begin to see miracles in our daily lives and our desires “answered”.

  283. He trusted his intuitive side and stepped selflessly into his faith. Faith in his ability faith knowing if he acted and only took the first step the universe would fully support him. If he hesitates or questions himself or the circumstances she potentially dies and he second guesses himself and experiences potential life changing guilt. Full Faith and Courage wins Inner Guidance and selflessness and Love always Wins.

  284. Campbell apparently took my entire first sentence word for word even the quotes around “now” that I had difficulty posting. Not exactly sure how you did that but….
    Mr./Ms. Campbell please come up with your own ideas.
    Thanks.

  285. The girl represents most of the people,drowning in their own thoughts, sinking into hopelessness and destruction, just like going into a quicksand. When this occur, someone may appear to be blank, non- responsive because it seems one is going down deep into a tunnel, the depth of depression.
    The Lifeguard represents someone who is alert, aware of every moment and at the time, being an accurate observer and detached from the situation, he was able to make a quick judgment of what is needed to be done for the effective rescue. Just like in life circumstances, one will be effective in giving a hand ( saving someone ) only when one is objective about the situation. In essence,in life, opportunity comes in an instant ( 20 secs for him ); one has to have the power to discriminate, take a quick accurate jugdment,be in the moment and your higher power will guide you, and in so doing you do not only help someone but you also helped yourself by receiving all blessings.These blessings make a soul happy, content, and very wealthy.

  286. Being a ret. nurse, I caught the fact that the little girl was wide eyed but unresponsive. I was thinking maybe she was in insulin shock or something such as this. I was also thinking that perhaps he recognized her unconsciosly as a soul mate of some other time and plsce. If that were so, he would have an emotional bond with her. Perhaps he loved other people and was anxious that nothing should happen to any of them, especially not a child. Perhaps he was a student of Metaphysics and so was aware of the connection we all have and so could feel her fear or panic. This is probably kind of far-out, but I use my imagination quite a bit anyway. Thanks Pat Leonaitis

  287. There are times in life when we by-pass the “I wonder if’s” and simply ACT. Such action is not a result of conclusions we have arrived at based upon certain facts … but arises from a place of spontaneous knowing!
    Spontaneous knowing is not a mind matter … rather it rallies the forces of mind, body and spirit from within every cell of our being; one then acts as a unified entity and moves forward with the strength and confidence of a God!
    So what might be the essence of the lesson now that a few more pieces of the story have been revealed?
    I believe the gem to be gleaned from this story relates back to my initial writing.
    The precious life gem is CHOOSE LIFE! Enliven…GIVE LIFE TO … every aspect of Being … body, mind and spirit.
    Had the lifeguard given life (credence) only to his mind … perhaps he might have said – “she heard the whistle … she’ll of course respond in a moment or two …”
    But instead he enlivened and listened to his Spirit … Spirit that knows beyond the mind, and sees beyond the physical eye!
    Will each of us enliven our Spirit … give credence to its knowing, its wisdom, and KNOW THAT WE KNOW???
    Or will we leave our sacred Spirit entombed within … and instead forever more scratch our heads in dull confusion saying “I wonder if” … never knowing that we know.

  288. The life guard must have seen a shark and then he risked his life to save the life of girl. A remarkable sense of duty, commitment and courage.

  289. The Key is to follow Our Great Spirit & intuition, feeling confident and self-assured we know what
    our Goal is in our being and what is the right thing to do for ourselves and all concerned.

  290. I am adding a ‘p.s.’ to my comment as I realize my focus was mainly on the response of the lifeguard …
    But what of the 12 year old girl? When I initially read this story it struck me that 12 years old is an important age … between childhood and adulthood …
    What of the Spirit of this child? Were her first 12 years happy? Was she looking forward to, or maybe dreading her entry into adulthood?
    Had anyone cared enough about her to ‘save her life’ before this day?
    Perhaps her life was saved in more than one way this day. Perhaps the lifeguard who cared enough to risk his life to save hers … was the only act of real love she had ever experienced!
    Might she … up until the moment of her physical – and possible emotional – rescue … not have cared if she lived or died?
    Perhaps this lifeguard gave her life in more ways than we understand at first.
    Life begets life. Perhaps now this young girl will be giving life to others in her own special way … all because someone cared enough … loved enough.
    And the miracle of life goes on … with Love as the wind beneath our wings.

  291. The lifeguard was in touch with his inner essence, inner spirit or inner being that propelled him into action. In the past a similar situation may never have moved him in such a dramatic way. This time it was different and the eternal knower within him inspired him to spring into action. With attracting wealth it’s the same thing. An inner knowing will inspire the person to be motivated to take the next series of steps that will draw the people, places and circumstances that will miraculously create the abundance that the person desires.

  292. The key of the story , is to be alert about another person’s problem. To see someone in trouble and not responding, doesn’t mean that the person isn’t in danger. So bold action is at times crucial to save someone from drowing. Anticipation also help in avoiding embarassing situations…

  293. It is important to have the knowledge to know how to act when someone else or you are in danger and then act immediately. This can safe a life. Listen to your inner voice and combine it with your experience. I think this life saver used his instinct and combined with his knowledge he knew she was in danger and acted immediately. This saved the girls life.

  294. Key word jumped out at me: FOCUS!One has to be focused on what one is doing in the moment, and act on it.

  295. Just do what needs to be done. Action speaks louder than words. Let our conscience lead us.

  296. The lifeguard recognized the expression of fear – and also knew of the undertow – what else could he do but rescue her! (If asked, he would probably say “it’s my job”)

  297. He saw with the “Eyes of his Eyes”…
    It is “action…reaction”…not telling God how big the storm is…instead telling the storm how big your God is….Listening to the God voice from within and trusting your faith in God to do as God is asking of you. It is not about… going around…under…or over…but… without hesitation… trusting God to go through what is calling to you. The unselfish acts of human kindness…because we learn to know God’s will for us and we have the power to carry it out. Trying to do God’s will rather than mine… That intuitive voice…thought..feeling is God speaking to us and we know the next right thing to do and must do it. Trust God and help others!

  298. The lifeguard trusted his intuition and through doing that even when he could have been ridiculed by others, he saved a life.

  299. The Lifeguard was a Wealthy Soul, who ‘listened to’ and ‘completely trusted’ the “little bird in his heart”. He did not start analyzing what the “little bird” said, for it would have paralyzed him by creating doubts and uncertainties. He followed the “Way of his Heart”,to the exclusion of everything else.
    Thank you Dr. Michael for all the wonderful messages you send in your newsletter. God Bless humanity!

  300. When one is struggling in the ocean of life, she can not see nor think of a way out. Here come someone, a mentor(the lifeguard), who had went through the turbulence of life many a time bringing hope to many. He can clearly see her need and to help pull her through from the life of misfortune to properity and hope.

  301. The lifeguard abandoned all of his human… being and reacted from his spiritual… being. He acted from and of “LOVE” and absolute faith.The “essence” of anything is its metaphysical nature. The metaphysical nature of God is, for those with faith, that he “exists.” His real essence is that you believe
    He exists, not His existence itself.The lifeguard had this belief.
    Love is the essence of God and that only through love can we humans draw closer to God….just as this lifeguard demonstrated.
    The Apostle John urges us: “Beloved, let us love one another; for love is of God, and he who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God; for God is love” (1 Jn 4:7-8).
    “While these sublime words reveal to us the very essence of God as a mystery of infinite charity, they also lay the basis for the Christian moral life, which is summed up in the commandment of love. The human person is called to love God with total commitment and to relate to his brothers and sisters with a loving attitude inspired by God’s own love. Conversion means being converted to love.” ~~ (Pope John Paul ll)
    People experience God through his energies, not his essence. God being love, faith, grace and hope and knowledge (see 1 Cor. 13:2 – 13:13)
    This lifeguard draws closer to God…..knows LOVE…. knows God.
    You stood on the beach … witnessed this…and received the lesson.

  302. The lifeguard recognised the girl was in a trance oblivious to what was happening to her. Just as we all are living in a trance. He rescued her from her trance otherwise which would have led to certain death.

  303. I find the story very inspiring as the lifeguard does not hesitate a second to save a life without risking his own by being aware how dangerous the sea can be. It just shows that life is all about giving and not taking. It also means that you have to have a high spirituallity to be able to act without hesitations, i.e. not being self centered.

  304. The lifeguard had enough faith in his own judgement and/or intuition to be able to act on it even though the other people on the beach would not have agreed with him that action was necessary. He was able to move forward without waiting for ‘social confirmation’.

  305. It is an encouragement to look BEYOND how things may appear on the SURFACE, because we can easily mask our true feelings. It is important to not just HEAR words that are being said, but really LISTEN to the UNDERLYING MEANING of those words, to check that a person’s BODY LANGUAGE is congruent with the words spoken, to ask ourselves what is REALLY going on for this person, or indeed for ourselves.

  306. Even though I have already sent my second guess, I just woke up from a sound sleep and thought about that moment. My previous two assesments still hod true for me but the “thrust” to go forward requires COURAGE. However, what else would illumine souls to overcome predicaments or even avoid them?…Attention, focus to details, conscious awareness of reality. The lifeguard saw as if through God’s eyes.

  307. We may be in a place in life where we see/ understand a situation that a loved one or other person may not or cannot respond to in a healthy or safe way. we must not let fear of failure or anything else step in our way . Let our innermost essence, our connection to all life / each other guide us and take action.Life is about loving and giving with no expectation for reward. The giving and supporting each other is our nature. that is why we feel so connected when we act upon our loving and caring nature. everything else pales in comparison.Have faith and take action.It will all work out.It always does.

  308. the girl was in shock and therefore had stopped moving,(one would have to move on the water to keep balanced and not fall in)the Lifegaurd would have noticed this and so judged that the girl had lost control,a fact he affirmed by blowing his whistle at her and confirmed by her blank stare and lack of response to the whistle, could she possibly have been deaf also?

  309. The lifeguard was trained in reading the situation perfectly. He had something that those around him didnt. Knowledge, understanding and the ability to work out the issue at hand. Each of us has this ability in what we do in our day to day lives. Its only when we beign to realise this truly that we can help each other in ways that even we dont fully comprehend until that moment arrives. The lifeguard is a lifeguard, its what he is trained to do, just as a heart surgeon or a firefighter gets trained, that is their talent and way of helping others and at the same time helping themselves discover the secret to life. Which is…well I think Matthew 7:12 sums it up best..

  310. The girl was neither deaf, nor in a trance, she was having a petit mal seizure. The lifeguard, who was a pre-med student at the University of Florida in Gainsville, recognized it immediately.

  311. We’re all on a path that leads to death and/or destruction in life without realizing it. The danger can even come from our rear where we’re not looking and consider past and safe. The lifeguard has seen it all before and can help us through his training and knowledge (mentorship). There are errors/dangers that the general public don’t even recognize or know about but will harm us just the same.

  312. There is a power within each of us that goes beyond the realm of human understanding, which has been given us by the Creator. As we dedicate ourself to developing this life power (Zoe) it becomes a part of our very exitence. Through this development comes a life of physical and spiritual discernment enabling us to see the real meaning of the things that are happening around us and begin to understand the true meaning of life. This young lifeguard had made it his goal to become the best lifeguard he could possibly be, thereby, maybe even unknowingly, beginning to develop the outer fringe of that life power.
    Imagine what we can become and accomplish as we dedicate ourselves to developing the “inner self” so that we too can become a channel through which the knowledge of the universe can enter into another’s life realm.

  313. The subtlety missed then by onlookers was the lifeguard’s PRESENCE OF MIND; his attention was on the task/responsibility at hand. I look forward to the end of the story; he got her out and then? He illustrated the key of being present.
    Now I can go to sleep.
    Good night.

  314. The girl was not looking in the direction of the life saver. She was not aware of the danger she was in until probably the last moment and then it was too late she froze.

  315. This is a wonderful story and this is what I believe.
    The young lifeguard was in tune with spirit that day & spirit drew him to help the young girl.
    We are all so busy thinking of ourselves and our concerns that we sometimes miss the most important things in life. This girl needed help and it is as if the lifeguard saw what others did not. Life is so very precious and we are all connected and need to look out for each other and spread more care and concern for each other. It’s all about FAITH!! The lifeguard showed this perfectly on that day. He had faith in himself to rescue the girl. We must all love one another to make this a better place, to bring peace to the world.

  316. By reacting on his insticts that the girl was in trouble, he saved her from drowning. If we are open to challenges in life and react directly we can progress. By being awake and moving forward whilst helping our fellow man with our positive attitute to each situation as it presents itself.

  317. The lifeguard was tuned in to the situation in front of him. When you are, you know what you need to do. When you are not, time passes by and you cannot see or feel. He has probably asked his inner guidance to make him aware so he can do a job that does save lives when you are aware. To be aware is to be in the moment and only then can your intuition be manifested. Another lifeguard may have not seen or felt this at all. To ask his Inner Guidance to serve is what the lifeguard had done and he must of asked for forgivess for his own sins so he could be open to help others. We can only be in tune with life and situations when we are ONE with God. May you be blessed.

  318. Be open and listen to your inner voice. Be open and receptive to your feelings. The Universe will guide you to right action. The lifeguard was open to the inner voice, feelings and devine guidance and reacted (without question, hesitation or fear) to what needed to get done, thus saving a 12 year old girl from possible death. The essence? Be open to the signs Universe provides whether they be warnings or guidance to right action and jump in, take that leap of faith, trust and react without fear.

  319. This is simply a response action to a situation. No time to analyze, contemplate or reason with the ego. In some situations trained action is all that is necessary.

  320. Nothing appeared wrong to anyone viewing this scene except the lifeguard. We don’t know whether it was a look of panic on the girl’s face, her non-response to the whistle, or some other tell tale sign. What caused the life guard to react? Sometimes all will appear well on the outside but something will well up from deep within us to the real circumstances. Call it a gut feeling, an un-conscious response from your brain,a response from your spirit, or whatever. The lifeguard had this feeling. The feeling is something we all have at one time or another about various instances. The important factor is, the life guard reacted to this feeling that something was wrong and rescued the girl. How many times in our lives has tragedy come knocking and we knew in our gut the reaction to make and we would reason it out or not want to look foolish responding to our gut feeling and do nothing. Only in hind sight to discover the err of our non-response. The life guard followed his gut and rescued the girl even though to others there appeared no danger to her. You could say that a person who follows those urges from inside us will find success from his obedience to these urges.

  321. The life guard had the vantage point he was up 7 feet and could see the things that other people could not see. The danger the girl was elusive to her and other people on the beach and difflicult to discern to on lookers. The life guard was trained, skilled, and had the discernment to perceive her danger.
    Many people like the girl and the people around them like the people on the beach do not relize, or see, the danger there in. A coach like the life guard in the story is trained, skill has the vanage point, knowlege and dicernment to see the hidden dangers that are difficult to perceive.

  322. The lifeguard registered the 12 year old’s lack of response, she may have been in shock. She was incapable of responding and was beyond the breaking waves.In any case his alarm system was on and he moved to action instinctively, without hesitation. He was 100% proactive and assessing the situation at lightning speed following what his gut told him to do without faltering.

  323. If we can be still long enough to become one with nature it will give us the answers of what action we need to take to to save ourselves or another person who is troubled and can’t help themselves.

  324. The lifeguard realized he must live in the moment…the now and respond to his intuition/gut to determine the best path forward.

  325. Though this may not be the moral of the story you are hinting at, it seems to me that this is a wonderful example of the oneness of universal energy – that in harmony we can sense another’s need for assistance – by listening to our inner voice and not questioning it, not allowing fear to cause hesitation, we can help others as well as ourselves. Occasionally the “danger” is beneath the surface – not readily visible to others… but by tapping in to the universe, we can be sensitive to our own, as well as others’ needs.

  326. This story is amazing to me because I lived it. At least part of it. When I was a child and we went to the shore I didn’t know what an undertow was and was in the water one day when the undertow took me under. I didn’t know what it was and didn’t think about it. I remember being under the water and it was washing me somewhere – pulling with complete control and a very strong current.I just went with it in a fetal position. But I was out in a few minutes thanks to several guys that saw it and went in to get me. It was very fast too and they pulled me out and disappeared before I had time to get scared or anything. I’ve never forgotten it but didn’t totally understand it until years later. I was probably between 13 and 15 at the time, I’m not sure.
    It was quick – no time to be scared – no time to realize the danger or to be grateful but I am now for sure. Thank you whoever you were!

  327. The essence of this story is that the lifeguard was able to see what no one else saw that day: this girl was ALREADY DROWNING, before any panic set in or before there was any obvious sign (to the untrained eye) of danger.
    The girl, by her positioning in waters that were almost certainly beyond her ability to handle, was in need of the warning she received to come in to shore. Her lack of response, may have been due to an inability to propel herself on the raft, an inability to understand that the warning was aimed at her, or a lack of appreciation for the danger she was in. Regardless of the reason, it was this lack of response that became the trigger for his immediate life-saving response.
    There comes a time in almost every life that we find ourselves in realms that are unfamiliar to us and we don’t see the hidden danger or precarious circumstances that place us in a position of great risk. In our ignorance we may even enjoy the blissful feeling that may come from being adrift in the wrong place.
    It is when we are unresponsive to the urgent warnings of one who truly knows the waters where we play that we put ourselves into the same position as the girl: we are, in fact, drowning — even if we cannot acknowledge it. Our lack of awareness/responsiveness to heed the call of one with wisdom that comes from deep experience renders us incapable of saving ourselves.
    In many ways there is a direct correlation of this story to Christ in going to the cross. He took this action in the face of a people who had no idea that they were adrift over their heads in the waters of life, and were unable or unwilling to heed His first call. His saving action allowed us all another chance to heed the call and to take the action we need to place ourselves on the firm ground of His salvation.

  328. Repost with addition:
    A lifeguard, by training, is alert to dangers in the environment and has skills to respond to them. Maybe even save lives. Nevertheless, he would only attempt to rescue those who clearly demonstrated they were unable to rescue themselves.When the 12 year old girl clearly did not react to the lifeguards warnings to get out of harms way, the lifeguard finished his assessment , went into rescue mode, and pulled the little one to safety.
    Though it takes bravery to swim through a school of sharks to save someone, it takes a brief moment of thoughtful assessment to know whether it is your rescue to make.
    Now. I seem to have left out a key to the story. And that is that the lifeguard knew something was unusual. He knew that because the little girl was close enough and looking toward HIS direction- she was facing the shore and being still – which got his trained attention . As you may have experienced on a raft, this is the opposite behavior of splashing around facing out to the ocean and propelling yourself in countless directions.
    The key to the little girl being saved may just have been her choosing to BE STILL WITH WHATEVER SHE WAS FEELING which became the subject of attention of another wiser hand.

  329. Because the lifeguard was trained in all the subleties and nuances of the ocean, he was able to ‘sense’ when someone was in trouble. For instance, he may have seen that even though the tide was coming in , she was moving much faster than the tide and in another direction. Perhaps we need to be taught in our chaotic lives to be aware of the ‘riptides’ of life. We need to learn from others who have been through those dangers and can show us the way, the less dangerous way through life. We come into this life being aware of dangers, but the ‘grayness’ of living can blank it out. Life coaching can help to see the paths again with more clarity. Therefore, the lifeguard is the metaphor for Life Coaching – he shows the way to better choices.

  330. A lot of us are blinded of what is really happening around us.
    But, the lifeguard was able to see into the invisible and act upon the revelation, and prevented an adversity that would have taken place.

  331. Without any speculation what was happening to the girl – She may be seasick or overheated by sun or sleepy – many things may make her looks fearless. It was not a matter. The matter is that lifeguard just did exactly what he might – the kid was beyound safe zone and his decision was to save her before she got into a big trouble. He acted as a life GUARD and not a SAVIOUR. It is really important to PREVENT rather than to CORRECT something upon. It is true for a medical doctor, for a teacher, for a parent and for a lifeguard.

  332. The Lesson: WHEN OPPORKNOCKITY TUNES, DON’T MISS A BEAT, SING AND DANCE!
    Know your world, stay aware and in the moment, and do your best to act wisely continually.

  333. well i was once drowning,(just like the 12 year old) emotionally and until i found that i had a lifeguard that was reaching out his hands for me and the only thing that i need to do was to reach back. He would lay me in green pastures and keep in a safeplace. he could be my refugee only if i tell him. God showed me that there is something that transcend the world. that is him… thats why he send his son jesus christ to die for us so that we could be rescued from the deep sea. Jesus is my lifeguard!!!!!

  334. The lifeguard listened and surrendered to a Higher Power, who spoke to him, either through a sign or within his heart (or both) and he took the necessary action needed to save another’s life, despite what the cost may have been to him. He loved a stranger and was able to serve with passion, so he could fulfill one of his purposes in life that was part of “A Bigger Plan” from God. He gave the ultimate gift, so another could know life. He was not distracted by the world around him, as he performed his higher obligation. He performed and used his “free will” in a good and selfless way. He was focused and in tune with his Maker and his heart.

  335. Michael…What a story you tell…
    No wonder nobody got the whole picture…We didn’t have enough
    details. I think that’s the way
    you planned it- much greater meaning. I read the 2nd installment
    last night just before bed. It took
    me almost an hour to drift- off into sleep
    for thinking about it.
    It’s about what you were seeking to share
    in Silent Secrets—“Walden Pond”
    the Mini Digital Recorder series–
    Your book—
    To Look and Feel deeper. beyond casual appearances… Trust..your
    instinct intuition vision inner
    knowingness…Courage to act on that without letting the
    “intellect” second guess you “out of it”
    The animal kingdom lives this.
    The human species has temporarily
    forgotten it, but is being compelled to remember—
    Our essential essence is Divine
    Consciousness
    As a sixth grader, I was a “traffic cop” we were told to
    stop look and listen—
    What is the Key you are asking
    us to “look” for that is
    right in front of our eyes?
    subtle yet always there-
    Life~~
    endless opportunity
    unlimited possibilies
    David 5/8/08

  336. P.S. I forgot to put the essence of the story: All of us should GUARD WHILE IT’S NOT TOO LATE rather than to be a HERO and TO SAVE when it is almost late. I think that was in LIFE GUARD’s assignments (written or verbal) and he had a good teacher.

  337. Hi Mike, I don’t usually write in blogs. I prefer to read and garner wisdom from the various writers. I can’t resist this one though. Destiny you know.
    The answer you are looking for is ‘a knowing’. We all have it. Some call it ‘the spirit of truth’. The thing is we ignore it most of the time. And the reason for ignoring it is that it isn’t what we call ‘logical’ – there is no ‘reason’ why we have this ‘knowing’ so we ignore it as just a weird feeling/idea. Basically our ‘knower’ is not our ‘reasonerand since our knower can’t give logical explanations we ignore it.
    Your lifeguard didn’t. He ‘knew’ and he acted based on his knowing without consulting his reasoning which would have likely delayed the process with no doubt a catostrophe

  338. The girl and the lifeguard represent parts within each of us. The girl is our innocence, the part that may be enjoying all the beauty the world has to offer but perhaps is immature or complacent to impending danger. The lifeguard is the part of us, either by intuition or training, that is aware, concious, selfless, empathic and able to respond decisively with positive action. The key essence of this story: keep your lifeguard on duty while your child is enjoying the waves.

  339. I think the fact that Dr. Norwood was able to draw such a profound lesson from watching the lifeguard is just as remarkable as the story itself. There’s something to be learned from each experience we encounter, whether it may seem good, bad or indifferent on the surface.

  340. New insight
    Why could the life guard see what you, an experienced swimmer didn’t
    see. vantage point He was seven
    feet up and knew what to look for.
    He was prepared and trained also
    “detached” so to speak from the
    people having fun on the beach.
    How does a bird of prey spot its
    food, higher vantage point Keen
    eyesight (vision) Focus-
    Purpose and Commitment
    Once opportunity is seen–instant action–
    nothing held back—employing all
    faculties to success.
    If a basketball player hesitates
    they miss the shot- or it gets blocked.
    The Super Conscious Mind can observe and act quicker than the
    speed of light.
    David 5/8/08

  341. The impression I got from the story, as simple as it may sound was to “Look beyond the surface”.

  342. I see this as Trust…
    the young chap trusted his instincts & acted upon them immediately.
    the young girl wasn’t trusting the warnings.
    Trust your instincts – Listen to your gut and your heart – Trust yourself.
    Trust and Act.
    That’s what I see in this life lesson.

  343. ***I’m not Linda-I’m “Nants” and I would like to re-enter my post under my proper name…** 🙂
    I see this as Trust…
    the young chap trusted his instincts & acted upon them immediately.
    the young girl wasn’t trusting the warnings.
    Trust your instincts – Listen to your gut and your heart – Trust yourself.
    Trust and Act.
    That’s what I see in this life lesson.

  344. What the lifeguard saw………..
    The lifeguard saw……………because of training, experience, or otherwise, what doesn’t even register with someone without such knowledge.
    And in the instances of ‘danger’, even life threatening, those who have knowledge and understanding are able to see ‘Red Flags’ where others don’t.
    I recall a scene from the movie Bat 21, when Hackman is going through the jungle to get to a rondevue point and as he is nearing the end of a ‘bridge’, a young boy comes up and stops Gene. The child then reveals a booby trap that would have severely mamed or killed Hackman had the child not stopped him. Hackman saw nothing unusual, but the boy knew something Hackman didn’t and he guided Gene in avoiding the hazard.
    Similar, having been a former victim of domestic violence, I can see Red Flags in situations or events or behaviors that allows me to see dangers that others would not. I have assisted others directly and indirectly, because of the gifts I have from experience.
    The lifeguard saw someone ‘stepping into a mine field’ who didn’t know there was one there, or maybe didn’t even know they existed at all, just like the young girl who didn’t show any expression of concern on her face. Parents are Lifeguards. Teachers are Lifeguards. Everyone has the potential to be a ‘Life’ Guard.

  345. My father (not a lifeguard) once saved a 3 yr old child’s life as he lay face down on the shoreline of the lake floating hidden behind one of the boats in our party. My father lived his life fully with passion and committment to the vision of his life purpose. Because of that, he was “in the flow” of spirit and “on point” so to speak, always alert to the opportunities life presented to him to serve in the most useful way in each moment he lived. Since his death I have heard many stories of how he noticed and took hold of those opportunities to assist others in their own life journey as well as to further his own soul’s journey. The lifeguard in your experience, Michael, was the same. He was in tune to every nuance of the ocean (life) and those swinning in the ocean (people living their life journey) because of his committment to and passion for his own journey. Were he neither of these things, he would have missed the signs of the helpless young girl, and possibly even been asleep (unconscious). My father has been an example to me for my own life journey and I treasure that even though I only knew him for 12 years…I find the correlations between my life experience and this girl in your story inspiring. Thank you for helping me discover just how much I owe my father in teaching me to be committed to my life’s purpose, and to live it with passion and compassion–serving at the pleasure of Spirit.

  346. I think it has to do with being in the moment. To respond to what life is telling you without hesitation. Trusting your inner voice. I think the lifeguard had a strong sense of this voice and therefore was able to respond promptly to the subtle message from the girl.

  347. More often, than not, those higher up or above us can see what lies in front of us or around us. A whirlpool, for example, cannot be seen when you are near it, but is felt when you are inside of it. The lifeguard saw danger, had experience with danger and rescued the girl from danger. Without 2nd thought, the lifeguard dove in; at some risk to himself, but he knew he would survive. His main interest and thoughts were focused around someone else’s safety and well-being; in this case, the 12 year old’s. Experience danger (or circumstances), survive by experience, live by learning more afterwards, and then use this experience/knowledge to lead others or rescue others. And, while doing this, have an opportunity to re-live own sense of self-rescue, knowing full well the benefits of being rescued and being the rescuer are invaluable.

  348. This is in addition to my comment from yesterday.
    The lifeguard saw an Opportunity, and he stepped into the Opportunity that life presented.
    You have to have the eyes to see and then take the only right action in the moment without thinking.

  349. Hi Michael,
    Essence of story of lifeguard and 12 year old girl ~
    As I perceive the story the girl represents the child within ~ the lifeguard has ‘woken up’ just in the nick
    of time; s/he has come into the present moment and
    suddenly sees how life could be washed away (by lack of presence). Without hesitation, in the moment rescues the 12 yr old – who, from her position’ surrenders the ‘fight’ and allows something greater
    and stronger to ‘carry’ her to shore. She arrives on shore awakened to so much more of life than what previously was experienced.
    They are One – the rescuer and the rescued.

  350. The Course in Miracles says, “Remember when you meet anyone, it is a holy encounter.” We can so easily miss the opportunity to recognize the significance of what we are to learn or teach with every encounter. You appreciated the lesson and so can we now because you have brought it to light.
    Maybe all of us have given the story so much thought that it will stay as a reminder of how we need to be totally observant to be a part of the present.

  351. The key to this story is; the lifeguards training… it prepared him to save lives… to see what others didn’t … to trust his intuition… and build experience for excellence and then… to GO FOR IT *** the key with his training created his ability to know exactly what to do & ACT on it *** WITHOUT HESITATION…. therefore *** A LOVELY TEACHING FOR ALL OF US… TO GET THE TRAINING… LEARN THE SKILS,,,, BUILD EXPERIENCE … SO THAT WE WILL BE ABLE TO JUMP ON IT … AND go for it …. WHEN OPPORTUNITYIES ARRIVE… TO SAVE OTHERS AS WELL AS OURSELVES! AND TO SAVE OURSELVES THE FRUSTRATION OF WISHING WE HAD…. AND LIVING IN JOY, ABUNDANCE & PROSPERITY… TRUSTING OUR INNER THOUGHTS AND INSPIRATIONS FOR SUCCESS!!!

  352. Hi
    He was trained to react to what he considered dangerous situations. He a saw situation he deemed dangerous and didn’t take the time to wonder ‘what should I do?’ He took the needed action and saved a life – the life of a youngster who wasn’t even aware she was in danger. It is better to take an action and suffer the consequences of the moment, than to not take an action and suffer a regret for life.

  353. When we are moving and acting from our center of power within, our reactions to the world and circumstances without are automatically placed into proper perspective. Hence, our decisions and actions will ‘hit the mark.’ Not only do we perform at optimal levels in whatever we do, and with excellence, but in so doing, we help transform the lives of others. Our lifeguard acted in the moment, utilizing his inner compass, knowledge and skills to take action that saved another soul – one lost and frozen in inaction and fear. It is imperative that we follow his lead and likewise become true lifeguards for as many souls as we may encounter ‘frozen’ or frightened upon this sea we call LIFE.

  354. Learn to trust in your own inner voice and judgement even if those around you do not share the same foresight

  355. I believe the girl was experiencing total acceptance of her fate, for whatever reason she had ‘let go’ of any resistance or fighting against her situation, be it the place in the water or more likely something too big for her to deal with in life. When we stop fighting and just accept, we experience ‘grace’ , ‘life’, ‘god’ whatever you choose to call it. Intuitively the life saver connected with her . In life when we stop fighting and feel acceptance of what is happening right now,trust that all is unfolding in perfect divine order- miracles start occuring. The little girl had not completed her purpose in this lifetime and the lifesaver knew he had to save her, instinctively he ‘felt’ as much as saw her surrender..

  356. I believe the essence here refers to that inner voice, the life guard acted on his gut feelings from within (instinct), he took decisive action without questioning whether or not it was the correct action to take. He didn’t think about himself, he acted selflessly, he saw another life he believed was in trouble and his unfailing love from within caused him to react intstantly. The girl herself experienced love and trust in it’s purest form.

  357. The missing puzzle piece is love, or the Charity the pure love of Christ that forgets self and thinks of others. Undoubtedly the life guard had some of the characteristics of charity that are described in 1 Cor 13:1-13. The reason I know this is because your story is the perfect analagy of my own spiritual life. I was swimming in a sea of worry, anxiety and self-pity and was oblivious to the dangers, blind to the implications and deaf to the warning signals. I will not go into the lengthy details but suffice it to say in only one split second Jesus Christ came to my rescue and delivered me from certain spiritual death by allowing me, literally, to experience His infinite pure uncondition love. I afterward thought that only those who had had a physical near death experience (NDE), who had seen a bright light and felt the incredible love eminating from it were the only ones privileged to have that experience. Just as those who had the NDE I too will never be the same. My focus is no longer on what I lack but on the fact that I have all I need already because with Christs’ love I can do anything, be anything and have anything I desire (let it be what He wills, not my will). And there in lies the answer; Because with His love it is possible to accept His will what ever it is. Then with these things in mind, “What we focus on will come back to us twice fold”. This rescue will remain in my consciouness forever and I will be eternally grateful as the rescued girl in your story (if she can understand all the implications of where she was at before her rescue and the sacrifice and care her rescuer had.

  358. I think it’s about knowing your purpose. The lifeguard’s purpose is to save lives and prevent life endangerment. The lifeguard carried out his purpose without hesitation. If we find our purpose in life, we travel surely and meaningfully with small regard to circumstances around us, withstanding obstacles.

  359. This story to me said that we all need a lifeguard or (mentor) in our life that can help us when we are in trouble and don’t know it and even when we do. Sometimes other people looking in have a better view than we do.

  360. this is about the blink -the space perception,intuition,being,presence ,knowing like in the book Blink- somethng not being right,being just slightly off and split seconds decisions are made and judged and up by the unnown in us all thst should be listened to as we know-gut to brain-brain to gut as the same cells that make up the brain-emigrate to the gut and so we can say literally a “gut” reaction embyonic,a gut knowing.

  361. This story, and all your comments since, in particular, resonate with my experiences of deep, deep “knowing.” That level of “knowing” is a combination of intuitive, external, pre-cognitive, previous-life experience that I have no idea where it came from plus such deep personal subject-matter expertise. I just “know” the answers to so many things. And my free choice comes in going with that, or turning to society and discounting it. At home, I turn to it; at work, I wear a dumb mask b/c it seems that most people reject my “knowledge.” Oh, well…to paraphrase Shakespeare: what a well we dig when first & forever we practice to “fit in.”

  362. I would love to read the story but do not see where to do so. Can you let me know where I can read it? Thanks

  363. The story strikes me as an example of the importance of being aware, attentive to the subtle messages provided by the universe, of listening to to our gut intuition, and then acting decisively and confidently. Most of the time we do not achieve what we could, and do not provide the service to the universe that we could, because of our own inattentiveness, doubts, and fears. We either miss those little “nudges” completely, or we “hear” them, but fail to take action because we don’t trust our instincts enough to risk – to risk being wrong or making a mistake, to risk appearing foolish. Or perhaps we do not see ourselves as adequate to the task. Either way, we miss the opportunity to fulfill our own potential and contribute to the greatness of the universe.

  364. Everything is either love based or fear based….the lifeguard knows love and reacted from love.. which said to me that he is “Spiritually Awake”….He stays “Awake” to the Spirit….and doesn’t sleep walk through life. He heard and felt the “calling”..the “voice” from within and did what was” intuitively spoken” to him.
    “Imagine life without faith…Were nothing left but pure reason…it wouldn’t be life.”
    Deep down in all of us….. is the fundamental idea of God. The lifeguard had the conscious contact with God and he reacted to God. He had that
    “Faith in a Power greater than ourselves”… We find God deep down within us…

  365. This story is about people, things and situations not being as they appear to be on the surface. Our inner greatness is about living in that knowing, withholding judgement, and not drawing conclusions just from what is seen. It is about searching for the whole picture. The larger part of the whole is usually unseen–or below the surface. Wisdom recognizes there is always more than just what is seen; we cannot understand without knowing/seeing the essential unseen part. The Lifeguard recognized there was more to the little girl’s situation than what he was seeing. That helped him understand the truth and respond appropriately to save her life.

  366. I think the whole thing is opposite
    we think the girl is being saved but its the life gaurd whom is being blessed he has been given the opportunity to grow and show himself, his inner souls greatness he has been given a lesson of love for all the world to see!!

  367. Hello everyone! I read your ideas with great interest and each and every one of us knows what we see when we are the “lifeguard”. I always enjoy seeing what is written.
    I think he saw what I have come to call “Mirror Issues” in the girl’s face. Mirror Issues are the ones when we look into the mirror we either accept and love ourselves for or condemn and deny. Wealthy Souls look into their images and see joy.

  368. I reflect on everything that happens and everything that you led us to read…I put myself visually at the place and time of what happened and in my position I really can´t see what is happenening but up above in the lifeguards chair using eagle eyes and intuition I´m sure he saw some sign of distress…maybe a cramp or simply swimming out alone at early age…the state of shock and not being able to react may have made this young man want to protect this child from what he sensed was wrong…in life it´s a duty to protect, to be aware and help those that don´t have the abitity to react when there is emotinal or phisical danger…all of us need a lifeguard and to be one even though others might not understand why we do it or what we see… We are god´s helpers… now I see everything as a life learning experience and help from God…Thankyou for letting me be a part of your life and having the opportunity to be blessed by you…BY the Way Happy Mother´s Day to all the Mom´s in Mexico we celebrate it on May 10th. LOve Diana

  369. I think it is about making a commentment to something, and taking action on something even though no one else may see, hear, feel what it is that makes you come to the aid of some hidden voice, or knowing. Not doubting, and taking action.

  370. Aloha Michael,
    The lifeguard simply was in a state of awareness that his sixth sense kicked in and prompted him to act. The girl may have had no idea she was in any danger as she may not have been knowledgeable of existing dangers of the area (currents, undertows, reefs,predatory fish, etc.). The lifeguard (even at his young age) may have seen older (even expierenced)swimmers, surfers,body boarders, kayakers,etc. have problems in that area before and knew she was in danger. His sixth sense kicked in and he acted instinctively and all ended well.

  371. This story is about how most people see their daily lifes full of ilutions and limiting beliefs it feels like we are drowning Forgetting that there is life savers everywhere.God provides all the answers,as long as we look for them.

  372. I am relatively new to this. I am involved in healthcare…have been for many years. We are all to trained to do something…whether it is wiping someone’s bottom…or saving their life. We practice our function on a daily basis..and can do it in an instant…without the slightest hesitation. I work as a respiratory therapist…can look at a patient and make an instant accessment and act on it. Your lifeguard did the same. He saw something that didn’t look right…and acted on it. I don’t know what the girl’s motives were…but when she failed to respond to the lifeguard in an appropriate manner, he knew she was in trouble and acted on it.
    Thank you

  373. Its not about the lifeguard, but I wanted to tell you about what you send today, its not often to hear someone writing to himself (and us)the way you did today. I thank you for the truth of the way we all share things (throw them out) so to speak, and in others reflexion find our way. I also feel thankful for others comments, for they also open ways for us all. Thank you Rossana

  374. I think it’s about the not knowing. No one knew the girl was in danger, i’m not sure the girl knew, but the lifeguard knew and did his job.

  375. I believe that every life event is not a mistake or a misfortune but a test of faith god puts before us so we can truly gain all are strength from him knowing that there is a much higher meaning in life that he is preparing us for. for those who have been touched by this force, go into the world with this divine truth and radiate this light to the universe which becomes the force in everything we do. Every good act is nothing more than divine intervention to help raise mankind to a higher level of
    being. After all we are all in this together. Wake up to the truth.

  376. Your initial observation was one of the lifeguards over reaction. It is so often our concerns of what others will think that inhibit our natural response. Wether this girl was in trouble or not is irrelevant, this man acted without hesitation, he is certainly the man I would want in my corner if I were in trouble.

  377. What if the lifeguard decided not to save the girl, but just let her drown? Worse still, he swam out to the girl and actually held her under the water until she drowned? It’s an abominable thought.
    But he was the one who had the power in the relationship and could virtually have done anything he liked.
    Just thinking of the consequences of his decisions made me take stock of the influence and power many of us have over other people’s lives. I’d never really given it much thought before, but my relationships with those I really care about can be both passive and sometimes negative. I, for one, will be focusing on being a more positive and fun person to be around. Thanks for the story!

  378. Most of us walk through life with blinkers attached; blinded to our surroundings, seeing only what we want to see, knowing only what we want to know, focusing only on the race, unaware of the scenery, the spectators, the lost and floundering; and yes- even ourselves. When we remove our blinkers and adjust our perception, nothing is hidden, the narrow path widens, and we see ourselves and the world as it truly is. These are the eyes of the savior, the eyes of the soul, of truth, knowledge, compassion – and wisdom.

  379. I am the Lifeguard by chance. I do not know how to swim so I stay around the shallow part of the water. Then, in one of those challenging moments, I saw the little girl slowly sinking and disappearing. My instinct told me to go to her and save her. I forgot that I do not know how to swim; the instinct was more powerful than my fear of the water.
    And so I hurried with all my strength until I reached the girl, held my left hand around her, and together, we struggled to reach the shore.
    I discovered that I know how to swim. I discovered the techniques and in the end saved a life. I discovered that fear is just an illusion that we can conquer. And whatever fear we have, we can overcome if we face it with trust and confidence. Foremost, once fear is overcome, a life will always be saved not to mention my own life I was able to saved instead of drowning in my fear forever.

  380. I see this story as a spiritual lesson. We are our ego selves – drifting out to the unknown edges – in our detached sleep state of life AND we are our REAL SELF/OUR SOUL SELF the aware all knowing Self. The world apprears to be seperate selves – this is an illusion we are all one. The world we see is a projection of what we think. We see aspects of our selves. Everyone is an actor in our play to become our Soul Self. We are not in a body – the body is in us. We are the life guard and the little girl. We are here to KNOW it is time to take no more time – radio for help to your higher Source, to rush to our own rescue and guide yourself back to your REAL SELF. Everything you see is an aspect of yourself. Everyone saw this story for a reason.

  381. There for the Glory of God, go I. The lifesaver saw himself in the drowning child, perhaps a child of his. I say that when he saved the child that he saw the Face of God as his gift for the selfless act. I also believe that you never give anything away without keeping something in return. I would love to attend this group in Sedona, so many of them feed the soul. Good luck!

  382. The girl was deaf! She was utterly unaware of any danger. She was just enjoying the freedom of letting go of any fear. But to survive, fear is essential. She didn’t hear the lifeguard’s whistle. She saw his panic but didn’t understand. He realized her disability from her mild reaction. He had no choice but to act as God intended us to act: humanly! He forgot everything else as this girl’s life was all that mattered. When both were ashore, he came ashore within as well! Life is priceless; ours as well as others’!!

  383. Hi,
    I am from Romania and I don’t know if my answer is well writen, but……
    The GIRL?! What a girl wanted to discover in the long way of her early life journey! She wanted to discover what she is capable to do with her life. I don’t think that she was in a great danger…She did not noticed that her way is so long, but she took her life in her own arms(and legs).
    The Lifeguard made only his job! He thought that he may help the girl, because she is in danger! Oh, NO! In life there are not coincidences! God, or What we are Thinking that IS, makes all things with a purpose.
    What are we? A seed, or a little particle of energy in the Universe .
    We are our thoughts. The girl had a though about the journey of her life and, probably, she sow that the life is not so easy to live. Here, the Universe sent It’s
    help (Guardian Angels), or, how we
    read, The Lifeguard!
    All of us have a Lifeguard, but not anybody know how to be in touch with HIM.
    I am shore that my Lifeguard is crying, because, till now, I cannot enter in touch with HIM. And only GOD knows what important is to find my Lifeguard in this life!!!
    Can you be my Lifeguard???
    Thank you, Alexandrina

  384. To act, with confidence, heeding your own private voice of certainty, is both an act of courage and an act of faith. The lifeguard trusted his own instinct and training and acted, without hesitation. It is not enough to “know” something is the right thing to do, wishing/dreaming/intention without action will not reap all the possible rewards. Actions married to internal certainty, determine successful outcomes.

  385. Science has discovered that between 60% & 65% of the cells in our heart are identical to the cells in our brain. The implications are astounding. In the case of your story, it would appear that the young lifeguard was “thinking” with his heart & thus “knew” that the young girl was in trouble without having to wait for his brain to tell him so. Nor did he have to listen to his brain contradict him about perceived information. He simply acted on what he saw/felt before anyone else realized that the girl was in trouble. Sandra

  386. The young girl couldn’t hear what he was saying. Whether she was deaf, or had headphones on, we can only guess. That, however, didn’t stop the lifeguard from noticing and making contact and pulling her to safety. My guess is that, had she kept her ears open, she could have saved herself.

  387. The message I find from the Life Saver and the 12 year old girl is:
    We all need to find that place inside us that acts from pure love and connects us with God to act in Gods will.
    A life saver, … or any person working in a profession where there is the possibility of losing your own life, I would think, lives greatly in Gods will and would be extremely connected to his or her higher power.
    I have always been a caring, giving and loving person but not religious at all and my office job certainly didnt threaten to take my life. But one day … a voice (THE VOICE???) saved my life. To this day I dont know if it was my gut instinct, a weird coincidence or if GOD did actually speak to me. To this day i still get goose bumps when i recall getting the message that saved my life.
    I was driving to work (running late and speeding as usual) on the same road that i had for about 15 years when i was told that “he is not going to stop”.
    I immediately jumped hard on the brakes.. without any hesitation at all (in the middle of the road) and came to an almost complete and very sudden stop. Weirdly.. to my utter surprise and yet also to my complete knowing and expectation.. I saw a car driving very dangerously out of a tiny side street without even slowing down and turning directly into the path my car was on. If I had not stopped in that exact instant, I would have been hit directly on my drivers side. I did not see anything beforehand, the car appeared at the last moment from behind a group of shops that lined the side street, and only after i had received the message and was in the process of stopping. I had driven the same road both to and from work every day for years without ever 1 incident before or since. Yet, this one message, on this one day, was so clear without using many words, i had not been told which street, where or when, simply “he will not stop”. It was a message of such calm yet such strength and truth that i could not – not obey. It was a knowing without evidence, a knowing with pure clarity, a knowing that it was from a much higher power.
    I pulled over to the side of the road after the near miss to see the other driver simply drive on totally oblivious to what had nearly occured. My heart was racing but mostly i was in total awe at the message i had received, and how it had saved me. I was covered completely in goose bumps and i was in a state of shock. Obviously partly because i had been so close to being hit, but i still recall mostly the adrenalin that ran through my body was from knowing that i had been saved… i dont know from death or inury… but it was such a profound turning point in my life. Had i connected with the devine, the higher power, my angels, my departed loved ones.??
    This message started me on my beautiful spiritual journey and to this day I am thankful not only for the near miss but the path i have since journeyed.
    I suppose i can see that this life guard was totally in tune with receiving early messages, both from being attuned to the seas conditions, but maybe also from being in tune and open to messages from the universe, the higher power, GOD, the connectedness of nature and man, in essence love.
    I have been persuing this closeness/oneness all of my life since, for I am sure that when we are aligned with God and Gods will we can receive messages of pure love and pretection from above.
    I wonder did the lifeguard actually see the slightest hint of the start to turbulance? or was it simply his keen inner sense of pre-empting danger?
    or maybe it was his closeness and openess to the higher powers subtle but impossible to ignore messages????
    Love and Blessings to all, Kaz

  388. The girl was deaf and couldn’t hear the lifeguard’s shout. In the instant he realised this fact, he leapt into action to save her.

  389. We must be in the Present Moment, focused on our intent. We must be selfless, offering our unique gift to others. When we are clear about our purpose and how we are to serve and love unconditionally, we are able to see those “in need”, everything in the universe will follow you through to completing that which you have prepared yourself for. Believe and it shall be granted. Seek and you shall find. Unwaivering belief in your abilities will bring courage to face any obstacle.
    http://au.msnusers.com/live2eat

  390. this incident teaches us the very essence of us being on this earth and that has a larger canvas than the the very narrow canvas of life which we draw for ourselves and then get stuck in it.our life has a purpose to it which we forget once we start, living in a limited way .we have to broaden our horizon and link our selves to the universe then only can we understand that we are here to unite with the core and come out of superficial exist ens which makes us unhappy all the time if we are not in control of it.our free spirits are to be freed again because we have forgotten that we are free and nothing can bind us.love unlimited can cure all miseries.just give, everything will be taken care of.

  391. The girl was oblivious to the call because she had disconnected from reality. She went into a world of “I do not care what happens to me”. This is why she stared blankly at the lifeguard. How often we do not want to look at reality and deal with it? We often do not understand the opportunity that life offers. An opportunity to deal with it, and become better people. The lifeguard recognised this and by jumping straight in, he rescued the girl, not from the waves but by bringing her back to reality. A place where the girl could enjoy the waves and be present to the excitement of being alive.

  392. The twelve year old was oblivious to the danger she was in (being pulled out to sea), as some of us are facing such situations as depression, drugs, etc. and the lifeguard was observant enough assist her back to safety.

  393. Reaching out to rescue ANYONE without hesitation or concern for oneself is the most selfless act that one can perform. On a Soul level, this would be an Act of Love, an Act of Compassion, an Act of Selflessness. And by doing this; we rescue ourselves.

  394. The girl was blind. In the way she gazed at him and not responding to his whistle, lifeguard realized she was completly unaware of the danger of the situation she was in. Viola Cox, Sydney.

  395. I must develop my skills and talents, and be committed to using them instinctively to help others. When I act, I should act in response to another person’s needs, not to what others around me may think of my actions. My skill may be just what someone needs, even if that person isn’t yet aware that he/she needs what I have to offer.

  396. Hello-
    please know that I am very interested in attending your weekend. If you haven’t heard from me confirming this, it is because I havent’ yet heard from Diana.
    thanks much,
    marganne Glasser (“margaret”

  397. I read a story about a 12 year old girl dying at a waterpark in Disney Land. The life guard had asked her if she was OK, she said yes and asked to be left alone, then collapsed and died. Not to sure about probable meaning… know when to accept help?
    Katharine

  398. I Think this story is this. The sinking boat is the belief of poverty in the sea floating of wealth, of abundance that can not be
    naturally trespassed, freely traveled with the boat, because the girl is sinking in it from here small ability to see her self in the sea, the life guard is you, for us, the one with an external objective that saves the girl with wild dreams. You see all the abundance we are missing and as you show us the flaws of our beliefs, you rescue us from drowning in poverty.

  399. There are signs posted throughout our lives, some giving directions, others giving warnings.
    If we ignore the direction signs, we end up floundering in a sea unfulfillment. If we ignore the warning signs we may end up drowning unless there’s a “life guard” on duty.
    If we have followed the direction signs and heeded the warning signs, or if we’ve LEARNED from not following or heeding the signed then we’ve “qualified” ourselves to become “life guards”–guarding people from leading meaningless, unfulfilled lives or guarding them from “losing” their lives.
    As a “life guard” we get to experience the ultimate in fulfillment–blessing others who DESIRE to be rescued. Everyone, in some form or at some time NEEDS to be rescued; not everyone, however, WANTS to be rescued.
    As the Bible says, “Unless you become as a little child…” The 12 year old, ignoring the warning signs, probably got in over his head or his ability and needed and wanted rescuing.
    Had it been a panic-stricken adult who could overwhelm a life guard, the life guard would have no choice but to let him drown or lose his own life as well in the process.

  400. please sign me up to be on your email list. my email address changed, and i haven’t heard from you in a while. thank you ~

  401. The lifeguard told the girl to have faith, he would be there to help her, then he jump in the water and grap her and pull her to safe. The girl thank him and told him how grateful she was for saving her from drowning.

  402. we forgett that life is about pouring in to one another the life guard realized that some one needed him that is the true purpose of life and why we were created to pour into one another

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