The Journey of my Life

Smooth Paths & Rocky Roads: In the Life’s Journey we climb high mountains, negotiate hazards, find unexpected surprises round the next bend… travelling with a serenity through the sunshine, frowning through the fog or smiling through the storm…

…Nearly 350 years ago John Bunyan wrote ‘Pilgrim’s Progress’. The hero, Christian, has a Life Journey that includes the Slough of Despond, the Hill of Difficulty, Vanity Fair, the Delectable Mountains…

…Thousands of years previously King David had written about his Life Journey…. lying down in green pastures, traveling beside still waters, walking through the valley of the shadow of death…

…Yesterday’s conversations included the pleasant path of Roy’s memorable holiday, Keith’s appreciation of family, Karen’s birthday celebrations… and darker shadowy paths – Francis’ hernia operation, Kathy’s imminent hysterectomy, Andy’s depression…

Careful Navigation: Some use a map book, satnav or wise advisor on their journey. When approaching a junction some look for the road that looks most easy; others for the route that seems right. Some pause at signposts and agonise; others make a quick relaxed decision; others just ‘go with the flow’.

Travelling companions: Roy, Keith and Karen are travelling with good friends and family who are enjoying the journey with them. Francis and Kathy will be supported by good people who will help carry their heavy burdens. Andy feels that he’s travelling alone and has no-one to walk with and share his burden.

In Pilgrim’s Progress, Christian’s travelled with various companions; the most valued were Faithful and Hopeful. David’s image was a flock of sheep, travelling together through fields and valleys, led by a Good Shepherd.

Destination: I’ve spent my life considering how I travel, who I’m travelling with; as I get older, I’m musing more on my journey’s destination. David concluded: ‘And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.’ Christian crossed the dreaded River of Death and reached the Celestial City… I’m looking forward to ‘There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain…’