Just Another Car on the Road: A Series of Minor Adjustments
While turning onto the on-ramp for I-85 North, I noticed an 18-wheeler parked on the median. Without hesitation, I shifted left and kept it pushing. Immediately, a pothole appeared in my path—another adjustment. Ahead of me, a slower car was holding up the lane, but to merge onto the freeway, I had to time it just right to avoid the faster-moving car coming up in the adjacent lane. Like a champ, I maneuvered it all—smooth, seamless, no sweat.
As I cruised toward my pickup, a lane closure crept up. No big deal. I merged along with everyone else. Of course, the merger caused the usual slow crawl and temporary jam, but I had left early—no risk of being late. Once through the congestion and separated from the clutter of cars, I glided into the left lane and continued on my way.
With no resistance now, I tapped the radio button by accident, changing the channel. I changed it back. I turned on the seat and steering wheel warmers, then cranked the A/C for balance. I slid over to the right lane, prepping for my exit. Just a few turns later, I was pulling up to my client.
And right then, it hit me—I had the knowledge, the tools, the awareness, and the intention to make it through. Despite delays, hazards, and unexpected moments, I arrived exactly where I needed to be.
Isn’t that just like life?
The road to where you’re going will always require a series of minor adjustments.
This is Ralph, and I’m just another car on the road.