By Dr. Rich Bimler, Ambassador of Health, Hope, and Aging (AH-HA!) –
The more I get to know about them, the more convinced I am that we humans can learn so much from them. For example, dolphins are playful. They have emotional warmth, marvelous grace, and develop deep and long-lasting bonds with each other. They are sensitive to touch, have incredible hearing, and imitative behavior. Hey, it sounds like we are describing some of our old friends, right? Except for the hearing, of course!
Further study shows that they have a strong instinct to care for an injured or wounded companion. They really do know how to live well, age well, and even die well!
One more observation: they also seem to be smiling and cheerful most of the time. I have yet to see or meet a boring-looking or grouchy dolphin.
It is no wonder, therefore, that The Arlington of Naples, the new faith-based facility being developed in Lely Resort, has selected as its logo …yes, not one, but two dolphins, teaming together to make the shape of an “A”! Just check the logo shown above. “A” is for Amazing and Affirming and Accepting and Attitude ….. and even Alleluia and Amen!
As we “dance with the dolphins” by celebrating life, by being a blessing to one another, by forgiving each other as we have been forgiven, and by reaching out to those around us who need a dance partner, we joy-fully thank the Lord. We thank the Lord for, not only dolphins, but also for the people of God of all ages around us who continue to care and touch and dance with us through the waves and wonders of life!
Naples is blessed to be populated by these playful dolphins. Let us enjoy them, take care of them, and affirm them as a gift from the Lord. But as we do, let us also enjoy, take care of, and affirm those special people around us who enable us to not only swim (and dance) with the dolphins, but also who equip us to swim and survive with the sharks and even those alligators who also are parts of our lives!
Fred and Mary Ann Brussat say it so well: “May we see how these beautiful dolphins can serve as our spiritual teachers, showing us what it takes to survive together as one family reverencing each other and leaping for joy in each other’s presence.”
Blessings as we continue to “dance with the dolphins” as we celebrate and serve, and even leap for joy (at least figuratively)….. in the name of the Lord!
About the Author
Dr. Rich Bimler, Bloomingdale, Illinois, has served the Church in various positions throughout his 49 year ministry career. He repositioned in 2006 after serving for 15 years as President/CEO of Wheat Ridge Ministries. He serves as Senior Staff Associate as well as serving as the Ambassador of Health, Hope, and Aging! (AH-HA!) for Lutheran Life Communities, Arlington Heights, Illinois. He continues to write, speak, and consult with other agencies and organizations throughout the world.