The Tranquility of an Old Dirt Road
A few miles from here, sits a farm that my wife and I like to drive by. The house, barn and outbuildings are separated from the gravel road by a pasture with a small creek winding through it. With some beef cattle or sheep often grazing there, it’s a tranquil setting where we often appreciate slowing down to enjoy the view.
When I see this farm, I’m reminded of a feature in a rural magazine that I used to receive that was called “The Prettiest Place in the Country”.
This farm, I’m sure, would be a contender for that article. Its owners have spent countless hours transforming a small farmstead into a beautiful oasis.
Each season finds the house and landscape decorated for that particular time of the year. Beautiful flowers and landscaping highlight the fences and house during the spring and summer. In the fall, with the colors of the surrounding trees and green of the nearby hills, the white painted farmhouse and springhouse, along with the red barn and outbuildings stand out as they add to the muted colors of autumn.
We live in a world where the ability to multi-task is often seen as something that’s considered to be virtue-like. But, were we really created to always run at whirlwind speed? I seriously doubt it.
In a world that seems to be increasingly marked by hustle and bustle, we need to find time to unwind – perhaps, more often than we think. Old dirt roads, sheltered by shade trees and winding past quiet meadows and beautiful farms, are among those places that I find restful – perhaps, almost therapeutic.
Slowing down and enjoying the scenery allows us opportunities to allow our minds to wander. A drive in the country may allow us some much-needed peaceful, restful time away with family or friends. It’s also in these moments that we are able to enjoy the beauty of creation – and have time to enjoy fellowship with our Creator, which is the primary reason why we’ve been placed here.
Reflecting on this farm and the little roads that lead to it, I’m reminded that life isn’t just about successes or reaching milestones and destinations. Sometimes, the real joy and success is found in the journey.
Although we can’t slow down the world around us, you and I have the ability to alter the speed of our own lives. Let’s make the most of this time that we’ve got – and enjoy the journey.
Have a great day! 🙂
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You.” – Isaiah 26:3 (NIV)
(This was first published at theroadreport.wordpress.com.)
