Looking back, and looking ahead

She stands tall, looking out before her at the long, winding road.  There are many twists and turns, but the way is well-lit by the bright sunshine streaming down.  

She looks behind: her home, the safe-haven of childhood, beckons her back.  It is so appealing as it sits serenely behind her, tempting her to return.  She wishes to stay within the safe, sheltered walls, but knows that she must begin to walk on her own.  

The melancholy of  her irretrievable childhood comes to her as she looks back.  The innocent joy of naivete, the simple troubles of inexperience are all remembered in bright, happy colors as she turns to again take in the road ahead.  

The dull brown road before her seems even more blank in contrast to the bright memories of childhood, but the girl is determined as she straightens herself and picks up her long walking-stick.  

She must make the memories to fill her blank path.  She must believe that any place on the path can be peaceful and happy, as long as she is content with the path God has prepared for her.  She must not wish to be on someone else's path, however flat and easy it looks.  She must follow her path, even when she cannot see beyond the next bend in the road.  

She must be determined to follow, and content with a slower pace than those she sees running before her.  If she wishes to make it to the end, she must go slowly and steadily.  She takes a deep breath before stepping out into the road.  She must follow the road laid out before her.  

And With His help, she will.