Natures Speed Bump
On one of my journeys from Hugoton, KS to Sioux Falls, SD I experienced an unexpected detour. Frustrated and tired from listening to the sound of the wheels on the pavement for 10 hours already, I sighed heavily. I was not exactly a happy individual and very unsure where this detour was going to take me, but onward I drove.
The sun was getting low on the horizon and the clouds were starting to reflect colors of blue and green hues in the sky. To my left and right there were nothing but farm fields. All the crops lined up in perfect formation and standing at attention. I could see farm tractors working out in the fields busily attending to the crops. There were rows of corn stalks as far as I could see. I made another turn hoping it was going to get me back on track. As I gazed at the crops again I noticed these corn stalks had yellow and orange tops on them. I was amazed and had to slow down to see what kind of corn it was. It was NOT CORN at all but a sea of sunflowers. I was amazed at all the colors and I just had to stop. So I pulled off onto a deserted farm road to marvel at the magnificence.
I parked upon a small hill so I could see acres and acres of rolling sunflowers down the country side. We got out to take a closer look and to stretch our legs. The unhappy feelings I had were replaced with exuberance and joy. The sunflowers looked as if they were waving "hello" to me. Happily bobbing in the air like they had no worries or cares. The sounds of swish filled the air with every breeze as if they were cheering me on.
I sat and soaked up the sight as the sun was dipping lower in the sky and they seem to be leaning over trying to soak up the last bit of rays before the sun was gone. Their colors seemed to change against the setting sun to a deeper yellow against the sky dotted with puffy grey clouds that showed little rays of light poking thru. I caught the smell of the night air and a little chill went up my spine. I didn't want the show to end and I felt so at peace. As I climbed back in the truck it was then I realized that if not for the detour I wouldn't have seen such a beautiful sight. I am reminded that sometimes God puts natures splendor on display to make us slow down and enjoy the view. I like to call them "Nature's Speed Bumps". It is times like these that I am reminded that we should be present and enjoy every moment that is before us. Sometimes in the midst of our challenges and struggles we forget to stop and take a breath. We not only recharge but if we don't we can miss the lessons and the simple pleasures in life.
In our busy lives especially with the holidays coming up remember that It is OK to rest, recharge and be in the moment. Rest allows our mind, body and soul to be renewed and make us stronger for the journey ahead.
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn form me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden light." Matthew 11:28-30
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus," Philippians 4:6-7
