Carving Paths

In a sense, our minds are like vast forests. As we go about our day to day "hikes" (so to speak), our every decision—whether we want to admit it or not—carve distinct paths.

It’s like hiking. When we set out on un-carved trails, it seems daunting, uncomfortable, and hard. We don’t know what to expect and instincts of fear kick in.

However, after repeatedly traveling down the same trail, it becomes much easier. The trail becomes flatter, visible and easier to navigate. We aren’t as fearful, for we know what to expect.

If we are not careful, the paths create can be detrimental and unhealthy. For instance: smoking one cigarette, making one lie, one night of drinking and driving, stealing one thing, gossiping about one person. When we get passed the uncertainty and fear to try it, it becomes much easier the second, third, and fourth time. Before we know it, we’ve created an unhealthy labyrinth that we must find a way out of.

Paths can also be fruitful. For instance: exercising one time, giving one gift, making one nice comment, keeping one promise, or saving one dollar. One step is the first step of creating a positive path. Yes, it’s scary to go to a gym or to take a class for the first time. But, once we take the first step, the second, third, and fourth become much easier as time progresses.

Each day, each step, each word, each decision carves pathways for our life. What paths are you walking down?