Fun Forks

Far too often we make life difficult for ourselves.  Just yesterday I found myself flying into New York.  Normally I like to utilize public transportation as long as it doesn’t take twice the time as the alternative.  Given the NY subway connects JFK to my home with very short walks on both ends, it is a viable option!  This was and is my preferred choice.  The catch was simply luggage.  Two seventy pound cases, one thirty pound piece of hand-luggage, and a picture wrapped up with a handle on it formed my posse.  I had a system which worked to a point.  I was worried yet sure things would work.
 
In hindsight I was clueless.  My drivers were messed up.  Cherry brought the point home with a simple “are you crazy look”.  Her question was simple, direct, and pointed.
 
“Why don’t you take a cab?”
 
Good question.  As I unloaded the luggage, sweat dripping in the morning sun, I realized how valuable her gentle suggestion was.  Far too often I lock myself into a path without even thinking.  Obviously I want to save money, taking conservative routes where possible.  Just as obviously life is meant for living.  We have the opportunity to enjoy, contribute, and be part of something great.
 
My “drivers” almost took me on a crazy route.  Perhaps instead of thinking about saving money and the environment I could and should establish drivers based on my values and priorities.  Sometimes things work by just reacting.  In the time right after Jesus death, “there was a garden near the place he was crucified, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been placed.  So, because it was Sabbath preparation for the Jews and the tomb was convenient, they placed Jesus in it.” (John 19.41, 42)  Yet sometimes things don’t work.
 
Imagine a journey where everything was driven off mercy, compassion, and engagement.  We would in advance, act with intent, and reflect with maturity.  It may seem difficult but it doesn’t need to be.  Fun forks and opportunities are waiting.