Life Behind the Wheel

Earlier this morning, I was on my way to meditation. There was traffic but nothing crazy. Suddenly, a recycling truck cut in front of me. I stepped on the break and thought “Oh, dear!” Everything slowed down. I kept hoping he would turn somewhere but no, he stayed, right there, in front of me.

As I was forced to slow down, I became aware of all the thoughts and emotions that this simple act had triggered. Here I am, going to meditation, and I’m getting annoyed over a truck. A truck!

I took a deep breath and focused on what was right in front of me. A big, heavy, white, clunky truck! There was a sign in the back of it . . . “This vehicle stops and breaks frequently.” No kidding!

Suddenly, everything went still and I became aware of a bigger picture. We go on with our lives, making plans, setting goals, and moving right along. Then, out of nowhere, garbage gets in our way! It has nothing to do with us, it’s not personal. Life happens and garbage gets in our way! We’re forced to slow down, against our will, and even change our course.

We can feel annoyed, whine and throw a temper tantrum. It will not change a thing!

Our resolve and faith in ourselves and our journey are tested. Our buttons are pushed. We are asked to maintain our focus, our sanity, and our sense of self. We’re asked to be flexible and keep a healthy perspective. All we can do is embrace the moment and make the best of it.

At times like this, who we become is far more important than how fast we go and how early or late we arrive.

Eventually, the truck made a right and I was on my way at a reasonable speed. I arrived at my destination right on time.

Photo by César Couto on Unsplash