Just Another Car On The Road: Giants, Toppled Over
Today, I was all over the backroads—scenic routes, as they’re called. Winding paths and majestic houses lined these roads. But most impressive were the giant trees. I know I’m being redundant here, but these trees were impossible to ignore. Massive in scale. These giants were homes to squirrels, birds, and countless insects.
As I drove along, I imagined the covering these giants provided for all the animals—a canopy of protection. No doubt, they were a source of food, a refuge of shade for those tormented by the heat, and protective barriers against advancing threats. Some trees extended their arms over manicured lawns, holding tire swings or supporting treehouses.
Then I thought of their unseen qualities. These giants provide oxygen and clean air. They are simply a marvel to behold.
As I meandered through the roads, captivated by the majesty of these trees, I was startled and forced to stop—one of the giants had toppled over. Traffic paused in both directions. Onlookers were torn between frustration at the inconvenience and awe at the sheer size and presence of the fallen giant, which completely blocked the road.
While sitting there, in an otherwise opaque and damp setting, I noticed something. In its fallen state, this giant allowed a huge ray of sunlight to pour into the area.
Isn’t that just like life? In our time, giants have insulated us with their presence. They’ve provided for us, remained steadfast and unmoved despite the thankless moments, offering treasures we didn’t even recognize. They’ve protected us from both obvious and hidden threats.
We know the giants are there—but they’re on the backroads. When one falls, it’s an inconvenience. Not only do we have to check our lives, we also have to stop and check on the fallen giant. While there, rays of sunlight and new paths are discovered because the old way has been cut off.
Let me get out of here, family, and pay attention to this new path that I am on.
This is Ralph, and I am just another car on the road.