The Mile Markers of Life

As I was walking today, I looked down and noticed that someone had cleaned off the mile markers along the trail. I admit, part of me thought it was a bit morbid at first, as it had somewhat resembled a marker for a grave. As I continued to walk, my thoughts began to focus upon that comparison ... until I realized that headstones essentially ARE the same as mile markers. For, Life is just one big journey, made up of countless miles. Some travel farther geographically... while others travel farther spiritually without changing location. Some people's miles have been cut short here on Earth, but have continued where their journey will go into eternity. Others' miles have been extended here on Earth, perhaps because of God's mercy and grace. I feel like God has extended my miles multiple times in my life, as He has spared me on several occasions.

Recently, I've been reminded how fragile Life is, how it can change in an instant, and how we need to cherish it and make the most of every day we have. I have so many things I must do before I die and I pray that He blesses me with the opportunities to fulfill each of to quote Robert Frost's lovely poem,

"The woods are lovely, dark and deep.

But I have promises to keep,

And miles to go before I sleep,

And miles to go before I sleep."