The Path Before Me

I took this picture at Torrogo Gorge a couple of weeks ago when my sister-in-law and niece were here. We took these just before we undertook the six hour trip through the mountains in the dead of night. We were oblivious of the perils before us, mainly because we couldn't see the thousand foot drops just inches from our car tires. We COULD see the one lane tunnels and narrow openings, AND...the smoking brakes on the other side of the gorge. What a trip.



Paths. I like pictures of paths. And roads. They represent a lot for me, and are symbolic for many reasons. This picture represents the work of a craftsman, someone who took pride in his work. He knew this path would provide enjoyment for people for years to come, because of the beauty they would be able to take in while walking this path.

Paths represent places where others have traveled before me. My way is easier because of the work someone else has done. This is no more true than in missions. When we lived in the village, I had luxuries that were never afforded those of just a decade before me, the internet being one. I may not have had water or electricity every day, or running water in my kitchen, but I did have a computer and access to my family just about any time during the week. My friend visited with her three small children and called me a pioneer woman with a computer. Funny but true. However, I could not imagine doing the work we did without that small bit of technology enlarging my world and keeping me connected.

Paths represent something else, too. They represent a journey. A route presented before me. I don't know where it leads, but I have an idea of direction. I will walk this path with others. Some will be with me a short while and we will encourage each other on our journey. Others will work to direct me off of my path, to more difficult places I was never intended to walk. But all along, there is Someone who walks with me, protecting me, guiding me, even when our paths with others veer away for various reasons, good and bad. He directs my paths, and makes His way known to me. This is my path, and no one else can walk it for me. Some of us will walk a long way together, but in the end, I will report on my journey and mine alone.