The Wait

Philippians 4:8
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Our trip was going smoothly. The weather was good and the road conditions safe. My husband and I were traveling south through Virginia on I-95 from Pennsylvania to Florida when suddenly traffic came to a halt. That's not usual for a major highway, but soon it became apparent that this delay was worse than normal.

The radio told us that several hours earlier there had been a horrific accident about 30 miles ahead that required cleaning up an overturned truck, and actually resurfacing the road to repair the damage from the fire that occurred. The wait was long, and we were between exits so there was no chance of escaping and finding another route. All I wanted was a rest stop so we could get out and stretch. Some of the trucks near us were noisy. For hours we inched toward our destination at less than 5 miles per hour. Florida seemed awfully far away!

Turning my head, I saw what I had been missing. Dogwood trees were blooming along the roadside. Tiny soft pink blossoms covered other trees. It was a beautiful day so we put down the windows and enjoyed the warm air. Since it was neither too hot nor too cold, we didn't have to run the heater or the air conditioner, saving us fuel. The birds were singing and spring was in the air. Before long my mood of impatience turned to thankfulness for the blessings I had almost overlooked. The gas tank was full, the sun was shining and it was the perfect day. We put on some relaxing music and enjoyed the wait.

That experience reminded me once again that it's not the events of life that determine whether I'm happy or miserable, it's my attitude. Of course, I would rather have traveled without this long delay, but I had a choice. I could make the best of the situation and find the blessings in the moment, or I could fret, stew, worry and be miserable. Either way, I still had to wait. The choice was up to me

Father, how I thank You for opening my eyes to see the beauty around me that day. The next time I am miserable, remind me to stop focusing on the negative and to look at the blessings You place all around me.

By Ann Shorb
©Copyright Ann Shorb, 2006

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