An Illuminated Path

As I stepped on the path, it seemed way too familiar.  Looking down, I can see remnants of my footprints from before.  Some prints are deep, with well-etched crevices.  Others are merely outlines of each faltering step taken.  In some places, I can see my hand prints; where I had tripped, fallen and caught myself, using my hands to steady and rise again.

As I lifted my eyes to focus on my familiar surroundings ahead, I noticed many places that looked identical to what I had experienced before.  Some places, however, were overgrown, hiding what once was there.  I took a deep breath allowing the memories of this path begin to overtake me, again feeling the need to gasp for breath.

As my gaze turned upward, I noticed something was drastically different this time. LIGHT. Darkness surrounded me before, causing me to lose my footing and fall to the ground.  At that time, I couldn't see the path ahead, but fumbled through each step, grasping for anything that could guide me.

Now, there is light and I begin to walk.  The places on the path that caused me to fall before, were simply areas where I needed to pick my foot up a little more and step over the obstacles in my way. As I walked, the light broke through the overgrown places causing me to remember that though I was physically here before, I am not the same woman who walked this path years ago.  The light shined in places that illuminated the changes in me.  I am somehow stronger, more resilient, grace-filled and hopeful.  The light, God's work in my life, completely changed how this well-worn path appeared. His light gave me a completely different view of where I was and where I am now; fully equipping me to walk this path again. I walk more upright this time, not grasping in the darkness.  I am holding on to Him as my guide.  It's not easy, this journey, He never promised that I wouldn't go down this path again.  He never said the hurt and pain wouldn't resurface.  But this time, His light will guide me through the once dark hallows of this life and I will again, come through it, a bit brighter.