Some Real Grit
Every season offers its own unique challenges and opportunities. Driving truck in a largely rural area with hilly terrain, winter is by far the most challenging time – especially when it comes to backroads and getting in and out of driveways. During this season, my truck has the opportunity to become a giant sled – taking me for rides to places where I don’t want to go! So, being able to see a cleared or treated road is always a welcome sight.
I took this picture not too long ago. It was on a backroad near where my grandparents once lived. The terrain, mixed with the surrounding scenery stuck out as being “photo-worthy”. Unfortunately, the grit made the picture – well, sort of dirty and unsightly!
The sight of that stone and salt combination adds another thought. It allows an otherwise, snow-covered, icy road to become passable.
Grit isn’t just used to describe a stone mixture that’s reserved for roads or industrial applications. It’s also a quality used to describe the courage, perseverance and passion that’s revealed in some people as they face challenging circumstances.
When I think of people with grit, images of Bible characters, pioneers, homesteaders and other historical figures toughened by life experiences quickly come to mind. My thoughts also wander to stories that were told about my grandparents and other family members who had to deal with various, difficult challenges.
Yet, grit isn’t just about stone, or the people who lived before you and me. It can also describe a passion and determination that God has endowed each one of us with. Grit may be manifested in some people in extraordinary ways. However, grit is most often lived out in our daily living and interactions with others. It shows up in the kindness that we treat others with, and the humility that guides our interactions with them. Further, that quality is lived out in the integrity that should guide and govern every facet of our lives. Grit isn’t just courage to overcome, but a passion to do what is right – every time!
While that stone mixture may soil the look of a beautiful winter scene, it offers us a powerful reminder. That grit reminds me of our dependence on the Creator, and the ways that He uses to guide us and others safely home.
Have a great day!
(First published at theroadreport.wordpress.com.)
