The contrast came at the perfect time. Guahti is, on a good day, hot, dusty, under construction, and very humid. The road out of town to the hills goes right through the transportation hub with trucks spilling out everywhere. Small and major repairs happen where they need to, on the road or off. Food breaks occur in the most unusual spots. In and through everything is the flow of traffic. The first hour saw the best and worst of six miles of road.
Rising out of the plain into the Assam hills, the change was startling. Dusty potholes gave way to recently paved roads. Congestion stayed with the dust. Fruit stands appeared to entice the traveler to take a break. Stopping at Nongphor to indulge, we discovered old friends out shopping. After greetings and a few stories, we pushed on, climbing quickly, enjoying the fresh bananas.
The road gave way to young pines, and signs in a new language. The realization waiting for all pointed to new beginnings and fresh surroundings. Part of the old remains, the incessant honking of horns, the rumble of trucks taking coal or bringing supplies, reminders of the traps waiting for each. Signs of the new are all around; cool, fresh air, the hills all around, and flowers in the most unlikely spots.
Shillong has been a hill station for more than a century. It is easy to see why. The irony is there for all to see. Being part of India, yet not. Reflecting much of the culture but not consumed by it.
God continues to give us evidence of his love and unconditional acceptance. The enjoyment found in sharing play space with a three year old. One can revel in the incredible sense of relief in just resting and being. The joy and relief when one can finally stop in a journey that did not seem to end.
You and I have much to appreciate. Solomon responded; “Bless your fresh flowing fountain!” (Proverbs 5.18) Enjoy the experience and the journey. Revel in the good things that are happening everywhere.
