Highways take us from one location to another. By definition, they are a direct path or course in which to travel. Some highways are filled with sights to see, places to stop, and adventures untold. However, other highways include twists and turns, bumps and potholes, construction and detours.
Our weekend took us on a long, hot, boring highway...one that lead to a forgotten quiet town. We've been on this highway for the past year now, and our destination, regrettably, gets closer and closer. This past weekend marked the beginning of a journey on a much longer highway, however...one that will most assuredly be stained with tears, questions, concerns, sadness, and now a new set of twists and turns we are trying to understand. This weekend was the yellow ribbon event for our military unit preparing for deployment. It is the launch of what we've been trying to ignore.
In preparation for this highway journey, we organized, prepared, and planned sitters, drop-offs, pick-ups, practice updates, games, and nap schedules. I made sure meals were in place, gear was organized, and details were complete. Briefings, meetings, and informational sessions were attended by just my hubby and myself as we left our 4 kids under the care of loved ones...all the while leaving our unexpected detour in the back of our minds.
I left the event stressed, anxious, exhausted, and choking down thoughts and emotions that I am determined not to express. But the highway leading me home proved to be therapeutic...the hum of the tires on the road and the whir of the wind around us calmed my nerves and eased my tension. What 3 days before was a boring and long road was, on this day, cathartic and relaxing. The green rolling hills kissed the blue sky dolloped with fluffy cotton-candy clouds along the horizon as we drove quietly along this familiar highway....familiarity for which my soul yearned.
We don't always knowingly choose the detours that await us on our life's highway. Some of those choices may leave us wondering, questioning, and unsure. But I must trust that my highway is guarded by God....even if I am struggling to accept His will.
As I gazed across the rolling green prairie just starting to resemble springtime I felt a calming...an assurance. Even if it's not my plan...I can still rise up, ask for strength, and rejoice in the beauty of my highway.
11 comments:
Thinking of you sweetie; sending endless hugs your way!
xxoox
Patty
Such poeticism! Beautiful, really.
Beautifully written and full of emotion. You are a very talented lady. I'm thinking of you all. xxoo
Sending you prayers!
Words are failing me right now. Thank you again for sharing a glimpse into your life so I can better appreciate the sacrifice.
And yes, He is so faithful to guard our ways. Praying you can rest in that truth.
That was a good way to think of it. I hope everything goes smoothly.
Yes! Absolutely! Rejoice in the beauty of the highway!
That's a perfect take on things. :)
I used to hop in my little beat up car when I was younger and go for drives when i was upset. It really is relaxing.
(ok. That sounds like a weird comment, I did read your post! Im just falling asleep and not making much sense I guess.)
Anyways - Im sorry youre having a hard time. Really I am.
Love. This is poignant, uplifting, and beautiful. You are a very strong woman.
I have read and re-read....I am sitting here tearing up at this post and thinking of the sacrifices you two make. You are both so incredible and strong and you have eachother. I am so very proud of you both. He is sacrificing so much to keep us all safe. You are so much stronger than you even know, and you do everything with grace and dignity. When times get tough, remember to lean on your friends. They will ALWAYS help you out. :-)
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