The Path {a short story}

As I made my way down the serene path, I paused to smell the most delicate flower I had ever seen. Its sweet fragrance lingered, intoxicating my whole body. I felt the soft sun soak into my skin as I looked around. The path was full of beauty.

I smiled and said to myself, Yes, I have chosen the perfect path for my life. It will be full of comfort and happiness. The leaves on the surrounding trees seemed to clap their approval as a gentle breeze danced through them.

I began to continue my journey when a voice called out to me. I turned and saw a man with a kind face emerge from the woods.

Dear child. I need to you follow me. A different path has been chosen for you. 

I stopped. Excuse me? A different path? Fear gripped me and I retorted, Kind sir, you must be mistaken. You see I have planned this path with great detail. It is perfect for me. It is all I have ever wanted. The path you are pointing to is rocky and full of uncertainty. 

With patience the kind man answered back, It is true. At times the path will be very difficult. But do not fear, I will help you.

I began to cry. Hopelessness enveloped me, squeezing the breath from my lungs. Overcome by sadness, I fell to my knees and began to plead, No - not me. Please, not me. All I have ever wanted is a path like the one I have planned. I want to experience joy and love and peace.

Seeming to understand my pain, the kind man responded with tears in his eyes, Oh my dear child. Yes, the path I have chosen will take you through challenging times, but I will never leave or forsake you. I have walked this path before you. I know the way. I know where it will take you. The hardships you will face will produce the fullest joy, the purest love, and a peace beyond understanding. And, in time, you will see its beauty. 

I looked deep into the kind man's eyes and saw a glimpse of the path laid-out for me. I saw a supportive family, friends holding my hands, and a Savior carrying me through the deep waters.

I took the man's scarred hand and said, Yes, I will follow.

'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD,

'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.' 

Jeremiah 29:11 

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers,

they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned,

and the flame shall not consume you.

Isaiah 43:2