IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT

I have horrific nightmares and awaken with a jolt. There are many who have similar situations due to trauma of one kind or another. Medical science offers different treatments and medications but they mainly are a type of blood pressure medicine that leaves one "whoozy" and unable to function in complete control. So, I generally take these times of being awake to talk with God. God has delivered me through so many turmoils and dangers in my life. God is my "main" and "reserve" in parachuting terms. I remember one time while doing parachute operations that we missed the release point into a very small drop zone. The winds were high and I ended up over the North Carolina tree line. There are emergency procedures for this. As I looked down and saw that I was going to come down through a tall North Caroline pine, I positioned my body for safety. As I broke through the tree, I slid perfectly down the trunk of the tree pushing my camouflage trousers up my legs and my shins skimmed down the rough bark. Thin skin and I bled a lot. I continued to crash through the tree and came to an abrupt halt hanging desperately well above the ground. Procedure is to pull the reserve, unbuckle from the harness, and climb down the "risers" of the reserve and drop to the ground at a safer elevation. Needless to say, that day stunk and I got beaten up by a tree. I think of that often, especially when going through immense trials and tribulations. God is not only my "main" parachute, but He has also always been my "reserve." I like that concept as it takes away the fear and need to sit in the suffering. If I follow God, He always has a perfect procedure to rescue me and draw me away from danger. I can think of no finer help in time of need.