Years ago, when I worked as a lifeguard, we were taught to scan the beach for any movement that stood out as unusual. Rather than watching each individual, we were to observe the whole scene for anything unexpected or out of the ordinary. To do this required a keen awareness and an alertness to the present moment. It took training to not focus on each individual part of the scene, but to instead take a broader view. Watching the environment in this way enabled us to notice when one aspect was out of place, so that we could respond quickly to any trouble and maintain safety for everyone. 

A comparison can be made to spiritual watching. The more we keep our gaze focused on the truth and reality of God, the more aware we are of aberrations in thought that would pull us into fear or negativity, so we can immediately respond with an awareness of the presence of infinite good, God, and experience healing. 

During the recent pandemic’s shelter-at-home orders and the flurry of press conferences, curve charts, and economic forecasts, I’ve found moments that needed this broader view of the infinite, divine presence. Selfless and courageous efforts by, and public recognition of, first-responders are expressions of good that stand in stark contrast to the miasma of uncertainty often dominating public thought.