Sometimes when I’m driving, I’ll come across an accident on the opposite side of the highway. Quite often, the result is that traffic in that direction is then backed up for miles. When this happens, three thoughts come to mind. First, I hope and pray no one was hurt badly. Secondly, I’m usually very glad this occurred on the other side of the road. Finally, as I continue my drive, and I see the end of the line of traffic and the open road behind it, I often feel sorry for those approaching, just merrily driving along their way, as they have no idea what type of delay is in store for them just up ahead. Usually we rely on our navigation system to get us around something like this, but lately, I’ve been comparing this to my life. Wouldn’t it have been nice to know six months ago what we were all in store for given the current state of the world?
I wonder if some being or time traveler is, metaphorically, sitting up high enough to see the road ahead of and behind us. Would they have the same empathy knowing what is to come? Would they think it was best if we just didn’t know what awaits? Should they just let us take the “ignorance is bliss” defense and go about our way? On the flip side, what if up ahead, past the delay, they saw a beautifully cleared road and how happy we would be?
The pendulum has to eventually swing the other way. So, what if we are on the precipice of this time? What if things will soon be getting easier? Maybe we just have to make it past this traffic jam or this horrific tragedy to the point when the lanes open up. Being patient isn’t really my strong suit, especially while driving, but so be it. I have to keep asking myself what I can do within my power to get to that point – the point in the road where I can finally get back to my previously-planned drive. I have to believe that is where we are all headed despite this delay and the pain associated with it. I will put my faith in knowing that despite the gridlock we’re currently experiencing, we will all be changed for the better because of it and the road we’re traveling will lead us where we’re supposed to go – to an amazing destination.
Thorny Issues 