“Life is a journey, not a destination,” the old adage goes.
And the adage is correct. Life is a journey.
For one thing, we never know for sure where or when the end is going to arrive. But even more, if we viewed life’s destination as the ultimate goal, we’d only have a very brief moment at the end to finally appreciate it.
Life is a journey to be enjoyed—with all its ups and downs and winding roads.
However, it would be incorrect to assume that there are no destinations in life to be celebrated. In fact, often times, the greatest prize is to be found at the end of a journey.
A runner knows the greatest prize is experienced at the end of the race.
A hiker knows the greatest prize is experienced at the top of the mountain.
A writer knows the greatest prize is experienced when the book is completed.
A chef knows the greatest prize is experienced when the meal is served.
A doctor knows the greatest prize is experienced when the patient returns to full health.
And a parent knows the greatest prize is experienced when the child has grown to maturity and responsibility.
The journey may be difficult, but the prize at the end is worth the effort.
In the middle of the journey, there is often discouragement and hard times and difficult steps that need to be taken. We may be weary, tired, frustrated, or heavy-hearted. But sometimes we just need to be reminded:
The greatest prize is discovered at the end of the journey and taking another step, even just one more, will bring you closer to it.
To those of you who are fighting a difficult battle today and to those of you who just need to hear this, keep going. Keep moving. There is a prize to be experienced at the end of this difficult road.
Maybe you are battling cancer today, keep fighting.
Maybe you are struggling to quit smoking, stay disciplined.
Maybe you are working to get out of debt, keep making progress.
Maybe you are trying to create a clutterfree home for yourself or family, keep decluttering.
Maybe you are working through professional counseling, keep at it.
Maybe you are trying your best to keep your marriage together, keep working.
Maybe you are worn out as a single parent, stay focused and intentional.
Maybe you are in school studying a field you are passionate about, keep studying.
Maybe you don’t even know if you want to get out of bed tomorrow, do it.
Whatever the trial may be that you are facing today, keep moving.
Each step forward may be difficult, but it is worth the effort because the greatest prize will be discovered when your pursuit is complete. And each step will bring you closer to it.
No matter how great the battle you are going through today, keep fighting.
