Historical post to boost positive thinking

The Road Called Life

Originally written by Coach Rai on June 26, 2017

Life’s a lot like a mountain pass.

It’s full of ups and downs and curves we weren’t expecting. There are random storms and positively, breath-taking experiences.

I scribbled the ideas of this post onto a piece of paper as I layed in the back of my van that was parked along the side of a winding, mountain road that left me with zero phone service or access to my blog. My van was surrounded by towering, rock peaks, a dense forest, and a roaring river. Rain was drizzling, thunder rolling, and lighting periodically flashed across the cloudy sky. The wind was howling and sending the limbs of the trees in a variety of directions.

And there I was.. safe and warm in the back of my minivan. Now, most twenty-somethings are definitely interested in fancy, expensive cars. That’s fine. But for me, my ole blue minivan is the only way to go. I was able to purchase it with my savings and not worry about a monthly payment which thrilled the cheapskate in me. I guess you could say I was hooked at first drive. Time after time I keep finding myself camped at the most incredible locations in the comfort of the back of the Gypsy Wagon. (Yep, I’m twenty and I own a minivan that is referred to as the Gypsy Wagon. Please refrain from being overrun with jealousy.) 😉

With my passion for spontaneous road trips, van life seemed to make perfect sense. In the six months I’ve owned my campsite-on-wheels, I’ve not been disappointed in the investment. It takes a little effort to make sure things remain in good, running condition but it’s always worth the pop of the hood.

Purchasing and enjoying a vehicle that is stereotyped as only driven by soccer moms (which I most definitely am not) has reminded me of some funny things about life. We have minds full of wisdom to help us plan and prepare for every journey in life just like my mind tells me to check things under the hood of my van before taking off on a long trip. We have the opportunity to enjoy the ride that’s called life if we’ll just do it. You don’t fret when you’re leisurely driving scenic routes. You may break at extra overlooks to keep your brakes from getting too hot, but you don’t become distraught. Use the same approach when bumps show up in your life. Step back and cool down. Don’t over react and become upset by every little thing that doesn’t go “perfect” in your daily life.

Take a spur of the moment trip just because you feel like doing so. Purchase only the things that will positively enhance your life. Use the knowledge you have to research and plan the route you most want to take. Be as flexible as you would be if the mountain pass were still closed due to snow. Chat with friends the way you would if you were exploring a new route together. Sing out loud to all your favorite tunes. Be giddy about this life that resembles a mountain pass. Enjoy every moment of the ride. 💜