The Necessary Pathway


The pathway of life looks different for each of us, but we all must walk it. As we journey along the path, the views change; it looks different at different times and in different places. 

Sometimes, we travel a scenic route enveloped by the beauty around us. Everything is vibrant and colorful; the view is amazing; God is close; we feel comforted and blessed in this place. It's pleasant and nourishing to be here as we find rest for our souls and bodies. It seems like new life is being breathed into us, the kiss of life if you will. Passing through this way may even look like a bit of heaven on earth. Time spent here helps us endure other parts of our life's journey. 

It's necessary.


Other times the view is not so appealing. In fact, it can be downright painful and ugly to look at. This area of life is a difficult place to be, but we must travel here as well because this is the place where we learn and grow the most. This is where we're usually stretched in every sense of the word. This place, as does every place, looks different for each of us, but we do share commonalities - it is uncomfortable here; God seems distant; nobody understands; we feel crushed, hurt, and alone. It can be discouraging and disappointing in this place. It might even seem unfair here, but this is the place where hearts get dissected, and fears are faced. This is the place where truth is revealed; the place we lay it all down; the place where healing begins. This is where our trials, traumas, and tragedies can transform into something more meaningful, hopeful, and beautiful.

It's necessary.


And then many times, the path is rather mundane. Nothing spectacular; nothing major; nothing extraordinary. This is the regular, everyday place; the commonplace. This part of the journey is often underrated. We tend to get bored or dissatisfied here after awhile because the view is more simple, average, and unremarkable. And yet this is where our daily routines occur. This is our place of familiarity and normalcy. We especially long for and appreciate this place when we're experiencing hardships and life-changing events. This is the place that keeps us steady, grounded, and going.

It's necessary.


Some places we traverse in life are strictly transitional. Transitional times are like bridges, connecting the place we are leaving for the place we are going to. The thing about transition is that it's not a destination but a migration from the old into the new. Some transitions are short, while others take longer. The view here is quite varied, depending on the circumstances. It might be a nice, happy transition, or it could be a sad, difficult one. It could be a planned and welcomed passage, or it might be unexpected and unwanted. Nevertheless, we all experience times of transition, and this place is what ultimately links all the other places together. 

It's necessary.


Clearly, life is not defined by these places alone, but I have found them to be some of the recurring areas I visit in my own journey. I have also come to understand the necessity of spending time here, however long it might be. I've discovered God reveals different parts of himself that are relevant to these places, too.

We'll become more genuinely present to our lives as we invest time and energy in these given places. In doing so, we'll become better attuned to our hearts and spirits. We'll become more aware of God's presence and promptings in our lives. We'll begin to move with less reservation and more resolve. And we'll trust more, love more, and walk stronger in our faith.

It's necessary.

Michelle Holderman 
Copyright © 2011

3 comments

  1. A beautiful account of the wanderings of mortal life. Love your writing Michelle.

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  2. Beautiful! this speaks volumes to me and to many!

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