Please stay on designated trail

We are so fortunate to have plenty of great hiking trails in our area. It is such a blessing to drive only minutes away and be immersed in quiet and nature. A couple of years ago, I was walking a familiar path when I realized the time had gotten away from me and I was running late for an appointment. Rather than upping my pace on the trail I knew, I impulsively veered right, thinking it might be a shortcut. About ten minutes into my detour, I realized that I was completely turned around and even farther from the parking lot than I was before. I wandered for forty-five minutes, getting increasingly agitated. By the time I made it back to my car, I was a sweaty mess and very frustrated with myself.

During my hike this morning, I noticed a worn, weathered sign that read, “Stay on the designated trail.” It made me reflect on that incident and how susceptible I am to rash decisions that leave me feeling aimless, troubled, and confused. I need a clearly marked route with plenty of signage so I can trust the journey and enjoy the sights along the way.

Creating a daily “designated trail’ is crucial for maintaining calm, stability, and productivity. When my intentional rhythms and routines are established, and I have clarity on my core values and my priorities for my FWL Ministry, coursework, home, and relationships, I am much less likely to be sidetracked by detours and distractions that shake my faith, increase my stress, and enflame my ego.

Living intentionally rather than by default allows you to focus your energy and efforts on what you CAN control, such as movement, nourishing your soul and body, loving your neighbor (and family members), and setting and achieving goals. Waking up early to plan your day, scheduling in first what matters most (like prayer/stillness, exercise, and connection) and fitting everything else around those core values creates a roadmap for thriving. Boundaries around when and where you're most likely to stray—through avoidance, overcommitment, overthinking, or mindless speaking/scrolling/shopping—serve as “Caution, do not enter” tape, increasing your awareness of potential dangers to your peace and well-being.

If you ever feel lost and overwhelmed, pause and ask yourself if you’ve strayed a bit from the habits, boundaries, and routines that keep you on the right path to a purposeful and fulfilling life, and then return to your designated trail – a trail both challenging and beautiful, teeming with miracles bearing witness to God’s presence and goodness.