Remember a couple of weeks ago when I told you that my car’s automatic transmission went out, and I chose to learn how to drive my mom’s manual/stick shift? Well, I might be getting my car back today, or at least soon. I called the transmission shop yesterday to check on the status of the repair, and my car was in the bay being worked on. Huzzah!
I was thinking about the car yesterday when something occurred to me: life is like driving a car. Some people are given an automatic and coast through life, easily allowing the car to do the work of changing gears. However, most of us are given manuals. We’re required to learn, do the work, and shift every now and then to mitigate disaster.
Some of us have 4-speeds and others 6-speeds. Some lay on the gas and speed through life, while others utilize the brake and take it slow and steady.
Transmission type or style of car notwithstanding, each of us must steer our own vehicle and not allow someone else to take over driving. Relatedly, be aware of backseat drivers—they’re a dangerous distraction and can cause chaos.
Each of us is responsible for paying attention to the road ahead and the signs we pass by. Sometimes, we miss a sign or make a wrong turn—we make a mistake. But we can learn from our mistakes and begin paying attention to the road signs again or get back on track any time.
We’re responsible for regular maintenance, such as changing windshield wiper fluid and oil or exercising and eating healthy food. Sometimes, we have to call in professionals to change the tires and fix the transmission or obtain help from a therapist or doctor.
Regardless of the type of car you have or your destination, you get to decide the route you take. You can take the quickest route, or you can choose to take the backroads. You’re in charge and can travel anyway you like.
Life is a journey. Enjoy the drive.
Added to the Fundamental Writes Spotify playlist:
“Journey” by Helen Jane Long