Highways and Byways

Life is a journey. This analogy is loaded with meaning and open to interpretation by each of us. Life is a rollercoaster too. Ups and downs. Twists and turns. Excitement and fear.

This journey I am on often invigorates and fascinates me. And I am also left drained and disheartened at times. The speed at which we move through our days is never fast enough to outrun the pain and loss that are inevitable. Why not slow down, at least for part of the daily drive, and appreciate more of the energy-giving awe that makes up our existence?

I just lifted a cup of coffee to my lips with my own hand. Wow.

I just paused to breathe in air, including the oxygen I need to survive. Amazing.

I just felt a pang of grief, missing our dog Oliver and his quirky, loving personality. Real.

Life as byway. Slowing down. Appreciating the changing view as I round the corner into the next hour or the next task. Pausing to catch my breath as I climb a busy part of the work day. Enjoying the walk back down the incline.

Life as byway. It has a nice ring to it. The ride can’t always be smooth, but with a slower roll instead of a race, the bumps aren’t as jarring. We, and this vehicle we travel in, remain intact, ready for the next leg of our travels.