No Shortcuts

Work smarter, not harder.

Wisdom that has served me well in many an instance.

However, a shortcut may seem like the best decision, the easiest option and even perhaps the smartest choice.

But what if the blessing is found in the delay?

Or in the journey that takes more time?

What if the landscape along the longer route lends itself to invoking creativity, that only finds its inspiration in the beholding of its view?

What if the courage you will need one day, comes from the obstacles faced along the route that are more complex in its landscape? 

What if the only way to learn to navigate the roadblocks in life come from learning to read the map along the way?

Why do we despise the delay?

Why do we find frustration in taking more time to end up where we intend to be?

Shortcuts. 

Are they truly the easier option?

Or could they inhibit the process of preparing us for our destination in the most beneficial and beautiful way. 

Could they cost us more in the end, having not prepared us for what lies ahead?

Is there not much to be discovered along the way?

Lessons and skills we may gain that will serve us greater in life.

I don’t want the shortcuts in life to rob me of the things that will build my character, strength my arms, open my heart, train my eyes to see clearly and teach me to appreciate the things that are often missed and undervalued. 

As painful sometimes as the delay may be, I am learning to be grateful for the invaluable lessons, skills, people and experiences that are helping shape me into the woman I aspire to be. 

To be more like Jesus. 

To learn to love more fully.

To learn to be gracious and kind.

To value what truly matters.

Here’s to the next part of the journey and the strength to resist taking shortcuts.