Detour, there's a muddy road ahead used to be the words in a country western song when I was growing up. Then, I only listened to the catchy tune and paid little mind to the words. Isn't that the way we are as we get advice when we are younger, and even older, that we do not think any of it applies to us? We are captains of our souls, and masters of our fate, or so we think. Not true.
I met a lady, not long ago, who had been married a few times and had been the almost perfect wife, mother and friend. Never the less, things changed with divorces and a death. She had followed her heart in all decisions and gave unselfishly of herself, always thinking she was happy but as she grew older she began to think, like Alfie, what's it all about. Where do we find that contentment within when there are more questions than answers?
Once again, not paying any attention to advice or detour signs, she plunged into a short term relationship hoping she had found true happiness and a long term love. Wrong again.. so she picked up the pieces of shattered dreams and tried to rebuild her life using some of the lessons she had learned from mistakes along the way. The mistakes and wrong choices we make along the way teach us the most valuable lessons if we only pay attention to them.
Why are some of us restless and always searching for what might be right in front of us? The lady once again moved forward and found a friend she respected and was able to be herself with and she was happy. Happy because she had learned that despite the detours and side tracks she had taken, there were smooth paths ahead when we value ourselves and know that we are unique and do have so much good within ourselves to share with others.
Heed the detour signs but move on with optimism that there is always a tomorrow for new beginnings. The oft used saying, "Live Laugh, Love "says it all.
