Embracing The Journey

Last week, a snowstorm blanketed the East Coast, transforming familiar landscapes into frosty white humps. At the same time, we bore witness to newsreels of wild fires raging in California. The entire picture is a stark reminder of our divided literal and metaphorical climates. It’s hard not to see the symbolism: two extremes, mirroring the polarization of our times.

In the aftermath of the storm, we decided to embrace the weather and hit the great outdoors. We had actually been hoping for snow. When we get it in my neck of the woods, it’s generally in celebration. The air was crisp, and the fresh snow muffled the world around us. This offered a rare stillness around our voices of laughter as we sculpted snow creatures then armed ourselves with snowmunition and went to war. The day was escaping so we called a truce and took off hiking. As the group trudged ahead, I hung back taking in the scene: the path we carved through the snow, my family in motion, and the destination up ahead. It struck me then how much this mirrored life itself. Yes, I do think a lot, even at times like this. So often, we fixate on where we’re going—the summit, the goal, the resolution—that we forget to savor where we are in the moment. Each step becomes a task rather than a part of the experience. And yet, those steps are where the magic happens. The crunch of snow underfoot, the shimmer of sunlight breaking through snow-heavy branches, and the sound of my youngest daughter’s voice asking how much longer—these moments are the journey.

And then there are the tracks we leave behind. Looking at the trail behind them, I thought about the impression we make for others who watch us, who come after us. Our choices, our actions, and even our mistakes make paths that guide, hinder, or inspire those who follow. The clarity of a single set of tracks through fresh snow can be reassuring, a beacon for others to navigate unknown terrain. This perspective feels especially relevant in our current world, where extremes—both in weather and in society—seem to dominate. Fires and storms, division and connection. In such times, our steps and our awareness of them matter more than ever. The way we walk—with care, intention, and respect—can influence not only our journey but the paths and way we forge for others.

So as we move forward, let’s challenge ourselves to make the most of where we are. Make the most of today. Pause to admire the view, acknowledge the effort it takes to keep moving, and be mindful of the impact we leave in our wake. Whether we’re navigating snow or fire, literal or figurative, we really do have the power to shape the journey—for ourselves and for those who follow. With due diligence the destination will come soon enough. But it’s the trail we carve and the tracks we leave that tell the real story. The map will be here long after we’ve gone where we went.

Author: afroblastik

I am a creative spirit manifest in the flesh, finding my way across this terra firma and beyond. My intent is to work out my own salvation while sharing to inspire the liberation of others who also hear the call beneath the unceasing noise of our existence. View all posts by afroblastik