I’m starting to see signs of autumn in the Atlantic community. The leaves on my dogwood trees have turned burnt orange. The 150-year-old white oak that shades my house drops dozens of acorns every hour. When a gust of wind shakes the limbs it sounds like a mild hailstorm. The air has turned cooler. Consequently, I’m enjoying my walks even more than usual.
A couple Saturdays ago I hiked in Pymatuning State Park on a rustic series of trails. It’s been a long time since I’ve been in such a silent, tranquil place. The forest’s shade and the cool morning air made my brisk pace feel refreshing. My favorite trails, Tamarack and Log Cabin, are described on Pymatuning’s website as “more difficult hiking.” You could say that. Basically, I walked on tree roots the entire time. I wore good hiking boots with solid treads and focused my eyes on the ground to avoid tripping.
Many people make a big issue of looking ahead, being prepared for the future. Positive thinkers remind me to enjoy the scenery, watch the sun set, smell the roses. There’s merit in both concepts. It’s wise to prepare for eventualities and to make sure you enjoy the beauty around you.
But there’s something to be said for keeping your eyes focused on your next step. I mean to tell you, you’ve got to pay attention on Tamarack Trail. You’ll get hurt if you let your thoughts wander and lift your eyes to marvel at the tamarack, maple, and black cherry trees. Not that you can’t pause and gaze at the magnificence of God’s handiwork. You should. But if you’re hiking, especially at a quick pace, it’s wise to keep your eyes on the ground ahead or you’ll land on your face.
I think this is a good image to keep in mind this week. I tend to look too far into the future. I’m working on it, though. Four years of therapy taught me this, as has my family. It’s overwhelming and anxiety-inducing to look too far ahead on my schedule. I get so anxious when I try to figure out how I’ll do everything on my calendar. My daughter will then remind me to live one day at a time, something my mother has told me for years. Both are wise and correct.
Jesus said the same thing in Matthew 6:34: “’Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.’” (NIV)
Well said, Lord. Today’s got enough stress; let tomorrow take care of itself. So as you live each day this week, keep your mind focused on the next step, not on the long road ahead. You can pretend you’re walking on tree roots if that helps you stay focused.
Have a wonderful week. Blessings!