DOWN THE ROAD

Written by Luz Leigh – 04 February 2008

      As I look out the window, the early morning fog has cast an eerie feeling over the area. It is at times like this that I draw upon the images in my mind. We begin our journey as babies, humans dependent upon others for our every need. As we progress in life, we learn to walk, talk, and attend to some of our basic needs. When we reach adulthood, it becomes our role to be the care givers for our children and sometimes our parents. We work hard to provide for the physical needs of those for whom we are responsible. Their spiritual well-being is also a need to be addressed by us. By our examples we set the pace for those following us, be it our children, our spouse, other family members, friends or even strangers.

      The Road at times has a smooth surface with beautiful scenery on each side. The winding road may lead us past sloping forested areas ending at the white water of a river as it boils to its destination. Other times we experience the joy of seeing for the first time mountains that reach toward the sky. On the sides of these mountains hikers can enjoy miles of trails across snowfields.

      Our trek may take us to the seashore where we see tiny crabs making their way among broken shells along the beach. As the waves come in to the shore, we are reminded that the ocean remains constant. We can sit for hours and watch the breakers, always the same, yet each different. Does this not remind us of our friends?

      When we come upon certain canyons, some so deep that even sharp-eyed birds cannot see the bottoms of the canyons, we are reminded of the majesty of God. He has spent eons preparing this vista just for us. Can we do less? Prepare our lives for Him?

      In the desert of the southwest we admire the beauty of the prickly pear cactus with its vibrant flowers which adorn the thick pads during spring time. Although beautiful, these flowers can cause physical pain if one gets too close and touches the cactus with its very sticky bristles. In life some of the most beautiful things can be enticing to us, but can cause physical pain as well as being detrimental to our spiritual lives.

      Then there are the rivers and lakes. Spring rains can cause rivers to expand beyond their normal banks, causing damage to buildings, taking human lives, and doing other damage to things in the way. Other times the rivers move so slowly one can hardly discern the movement. Lakes can have a calming effect on a person if one but slows down long enough to take pleasure in them. Below the surface are fishes of various species, possibly an alligator or two. At some lakes there are sandy beaches leading to the water so swimming is possible. God provides so many ways for us to refresh our bodies and souls.

      So when you receive a message from me promising to “see you down the Road”, take time to pause and allow refreshment to pour over your soul and body. I will “stay between the white lines” and watch out for the curves that might be thrown in my path.

      This is written for my family and friends with the desire that each who reads it will receive some encouragement as the Road is traveled.