On Track

Continuing On

"almost crumbling to the ground she stopped.
looking at how far she had traveled
and all it had taken to get there,
she recognized her strength. 

the strengths she had inside of her,
the strength she had gained along the way -
her inner power.

and so, she stood up ,
standing tall,
she faced forward
and continued on.

by terri st.cloud



The business concept of 'climbing up a ladder' never made much sense to me, as it seemed that once someone reached the top, in time, they would simply fall off or worse yet, be pushed. 

Some where along the line, I embraced the concept of all of us being on a train.  All of us were headed to the same destination traveling along in different cars.  There was no 'better than' as we all shifted from one train car to another.  At times we might ride up front by the engine, driving full speed a head, but then we would take a turn at sitting in the caboose enjoying the beautiful scenery.  Hiding out in a cabin for silence was perfectly accepted. 

Taking this train concept even further, we could say that at times we de-boarded, visiting little towns along the stations.  As all human beings have free will, we could go exploring, but ultimately, we would be gently nudged back to the depot. 

Riding along in the train car, we would each have a window.  We could each take in the same sight, but interpret what we saw in our own language or perceptions.  Nothing right or wrong, just different.

I do not want to focus on the train running off the track, (which does happen), or someone getting thrown off the train (which does happen) as that is just part of the journey. 

I do want to focus on the train holding us all together as we experience life not alone but connected.  Even if we want to be alone, we can still look with compassion into the eyes of those fellow travelers who suffer.  We can observe the joy expressed on the faces of young and old alike.  Really see the beauty in the landscapes as they pass through our vision and hear the click-clacking of the train speeding over the tracks. 

While sitting in the lounge car, feel the texture of the linens and the fragrance of the flower in the vase.  Watch the water as is sloshes in the glass. Be mindful of the variety of flavors spreading across your taste buds. 

In darkness, we pass through a tunnel.  Keep looking ahead as in time, we will see the small ball of light grow larger.  Eventually, we will be covered in light once again.

If we can embrace life with a simple awareness, the ride will be so much smoother.  If we don't like the company we keep, change cars.  If we want to accelerate, move to the engine room.  If we need to connect with nature, go sit in the caboose.  If we need time out, search for an unoccupied cabin.  The Ticket Master will be available to offer guidance.  When we have really serious questions, however, the Conductor is always ready to listen and assist as there is a map to show us the way.

All aboard!