Pushing the Wind

Today, I went for a bike ride on my usual route, but felt myself being pushed back by the wind.  It has been a hard week, and this seemed to be nature's response.  Then the lessons began.  As I shifted gears, I thought about how when trials threaten to immobilize our forward progress, we sometimes have to shift down and slow down, but we must never stop pedaling forward.  While we sometimes don't feel like we are moving, the scenery changes verify that we are.  It is even okay to stop and take a break, as long as we get back on the bike.  We can't ignore the wind, but we can adjust to it.

Sometimes another rider might be just ahead of us, and we can use their draft to ease our own burden.  I have many people on this side of the veil and on the other who have drafted me forward, dragging me along as they push the wind for me.  I am so grateful for them.  Thanks to them and to my Savior, I know that I am never alone.

Today, there were many times when I felt like turning around, not wanting to push the wind anymore, but I kept pedaling until I reached my destination.  In life, I am determined to do the same.  Thankfully, when it was time to go home, the wind was blowing in my direction, pushing me forward and allowing me a respite from the uphill battle.  Such it is with life.  Our problems and trials will eventually serve as means to an end, they will push us home.  They will lift us to stronger, more determined, exhilarating heights and help us become conquerors of darkness and partakers of joy.