Focus

Yesterday I drove home late. I had spent a great time at dinner, getting to know a new friend. By the time we left the restaurant it had begun to rain and lightly snow. The wind was blowing and causing the snow to swirl in different directions and the closer I came to home the harder it became to concentrate on the road. The winter after I had turned sixteen I had my first experience in driving home alone in a big snowstorm. I had finished my late night shift at Jubilee and my nervousness caused me to call my dad and ask for his advice, but mainly I just wanted to hear him say that I could do it, that I didn’t have to worry. There is something about talking to my dad that brings just the right kind of comfort. He told me something obvious but that worked as I prepared to travel home, he said, “Just don’t concentrate on the snow, find the white line and watch it. If you stare at the snow you will only get disoriented.” Simple, right? It was, and that advice got me home safe.

Ever since that night the only voice I hear in a snow storm is my father’s. When I am tempted to be mesmerized by the snow, I think of him and try to focus my attention back to the white side line. Last night I was again drawn to his advice but in that, I was also given some spiritual promptings that I have desperately needed. The thought came to me that too often in my life instead of looking to the white line – to steady my course and get me through difficulties safely, I am following the swirling snow of problems, heartache, disillusionment and my own issues and in turn I become lost and disoriented. Last night I was awakened to my foolishness and strengthened in my determination. There is much in life that is good and many who are willing to help and love. The white line can vary from individual to individual but ultimately the core comes down to love, hope and faith; for me the love is centered in those I love and those who love me, the hope comes in understanding of gospel principles and looking forward and not back, finally, the faith is in Jesus Christ.

I am grateful for quiet moments and gentle promptings. Focus on your white line and know that while the snow remains, it does not have to be your focus.