Detours

“I have dreamed in my life, dreams that have stayed with me ever after, and changed my ideas; they have gone through and through me, like wine through water, and altered the color of my mind.” – Emily Bronte

On my way to a meeting yesterday by my house, I knew the shortest route to get there. When the road was backed up, I changed my route even though it was a bit longer. As I drove down the altered path, I realized its familiarity.

All summer long, I ran this path for my marathon training many early Saturday mornings. And this morning’s detour shifted my worry about Sunday’s marathon to excitement and calm. Doubts suddenly overcome with ease in knowing that I did the work and the results will unfold as they are meant to.

This journey is complete. And what remains is getting to the start line, joining thousands of runners who share similar stories of set backs, personal records, injuries and fatigue from four months of training in the middle of life that’s filled with too many commitments, deadlines and distractions. And yet, they showed up, despite those voices of dissent.

The detours, wins, ties and losses are all part of our life, our path transforming us into who we already are. All of the altered paths lead us to what’s next and what’s right for us. Put down the map and take in the scenery. It’s a beautiful path, especially the detours.