Inroads – encroachment
Crossroads – decisions
Dirt roads – tributaries along the way
Bumpy roads – the ups and downs
Detours – new direction to the same destination
Roadblocks – stop or find another way
Out roads – the place we don’t want to be
Every day, we choose the road we set our feet upon. Each inch we travel is a minute step in the right direction as long as that direction is forward. Don’t stand still, don’t hesitate, don’t stop moving.
Others will make inroads against us…don’t let them. Do not allow anyone to take from us what we are not willing to give freely. Don’t let them sneak up on you.
Do our hard thinking along the way so when we reach your crossroads you’ll know the direction you are meant to take. This will never be easy and we will likely be here more than once. If you take the wrong turn the first time, remember it well…and do better the next.
The dirt roads are mere side trips; chances to meet new people, try new things, gain new insight, or just look for a place to breathe. These are the paths that make the journey worthwhile.
There will always be bumps in the road ahead…there has never been a completely flat road and there never will be. Some are visible, some clouded in the fog of our mind’s eye…but there, they are. We must use caution on the way to planting our flag of accomplishment on the top, and always leave a word or two of encouragement there for the ones that follow. And remember, we are gaining strength with each step up and over to the other side. The next one will be a little easier and the one after that and the one after that.
Don’t fear the detours, they are a necessary part of our journey. As long as our destination is clear, how we get there matters little and there’s nothing wrong with a change of scenery. Sights to be enjoyed, experiences to be treasured, lessons to be learned…Life recalculated.
The road blocks are meant to test us. They will stop some in their tracks; end the journey because it just got too hard. Don’t let this happen. We must use them as tools to hone our skills of adjusting, ingenuity, imagination, and self-reliance. Don’t give in and don’t give up…give ’em hell.
There may be times we find ourselves on the outside, what I call the out roads. This is not a place to be. This is a place of indecision, self-doubt, fear of the unknown, and even fear of the known. The kind of fear that lives in the dark places, leaves us afraid to step forward, or afraid to move at all. Lost. If we find ourselves here…we must stop, open our minds, hearts, and eyes…for this is the time to ask for help.
We can see them; the people in our lives we love and respect; lining the shoulder of the roads we’ve walked…reaching out. They are waiting, they are willing, they are there to help you back on your path. But they cannot do it for you…admit you are lost, take the hands that are offered, and begin again. One step at a time.
It’s never too late.
It’s never too late to reach for the moon.
It’s never to late.
It’s never to late to get back on the road.
Safe travels my friends.
50 Shades of Gray Hair 
This is fantastic, and insightful, and wise, and true. I have a little message on my desk, it’s been there for a decade or more and it says, “If you go down the wrong road – make a right turn” You are right, it’s never too late. Hands outstretched…xoxo
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Mine too…we’ll meet somewhere in the middle. And thank you Bon, you know the roads very well…and you are an inspiration to those walking behind and beside you…xoxo
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Every day is a new adventure! What a fabulous post and I’m glad that you have embraced a very positive outlook. Three cheers.
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Thank you David…you’ve been one lining my roads of late and I appreciate your always positive support and outreach. I can and do offer the same. R
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Your journey – as all of our journeys – has twists and turns that no GPS ever indicates. And we keep going honey..as you are and will. And ultimately, the sun’s rays can be found between the trees. Thinking of you and keeping you in my heart as always..m
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I know you are there…your as much a part of the sun’s rays as anything…xo
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Beautiful post….and pics….and soul. I love those dirt roads, not so fond of the bumps and the downs….but sure enjoy the giving em hell part. Hugs ♥ psb
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And give them hell you do…I know it! I’m so glad you reached out from my sidelines…wouldn’t be the same journey without you…xo
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fist bump 😉
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then you’re lucky…or blessed…or both! no bump is gonna stop you..ever. xo
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😉
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Reblogged this on Pieces of Me.
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Beautiful post, SFAM. Says a lot about a life well-traveled. Hugs!
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Thanks you…it is isn’t it? And still going…that says somethiing. xo
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I find it extraordinary that you have written this beautiful post on the same day I have returned to blogging. I am sure that many of us are thanking you for this wise encouragement.
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It is so good to hear your voice Jules…Welcome Back, you were missed and in my thoughts. How are you?
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Your strength never ceases to amaze me gyps, although at times you doubt yourself your truly an inspirational woman ((hugs)) Angel
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