Editor Not Logged In
Drive or Be Driven by Faith Walker

Content on this page requires a newer version of Adobe Flash Player.

Get Adobe Flash player

 		..whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—
-think on such things. Phil. 4:8
Home > Categories > Society » The Meaning of Life > Drive or Be Driven

Drive or Be Driven

by Faith Walker


A friend and I were talking and the question arose, “Why is it when you are tired and driving you are able to stay awake? But when you are in the passenger seat your body succumbs to exhaustion.” My answer was when you are in the passenger seat you have no reason to fight the exhaustion. However, when you are driving you must fight the urge to fall asleep in order to safely reach your destination. Instantly when I said that the question came to mind, “Are You Driving or Being Driven?”

 
It is a metaphor for life. We all will have the opportunity to relax and enjoy the passenger seat. Just enjoy the ride. Maybe offer a few suggestions and encouraging words. But after driving for a while and the going gets tough you have the luxury of going to sleep and waiting to reach the destination. 
 
There are times in life when you cannot just relax and be driven to your destination. You have to get in the driver’s seat and fight the bad weather and exhaustion and take those driving with you safely to your destination. At some point in your life you will have to get out of your comfort zone (passenger’s seat) and drive. There is something that only you can accomplish. And when it is time for that something to be done you must take the driver’s seat. Are you prepared to drive?
 
A while ago I was thrust into the driver’s seat when I was laid-off. Some days I want so badly to sluggishly slump into the passenger’s seat and stop looking for jobs, stop promoting my business ventures and stop encouraging others. But I cannot give up. I will not give up. I have to remember the dreams that were so vivid in my mind prior to this detour. No matter how many people are in the car that love and encourage me, I am still the one driving. They can go to sleep when night falls, I must press on and navigate through this unfortunate alternative route.
 
I know that one day I will look back at this situation as a testimony of triumph. However, I do not want to wait until this situation is over to inspire others. I want to encourage so many others who are driving through life’s uneven road. It is so easy for us in this current economic crisis to look at all of the institutions failing and decide to lie back in the passenger’s seat and wait for institutions to solve the problems. I believe it is the exact opposite. This is the perfect time to refuel and pursue our individual dreams with renewed vigor and zest. 
 
Now it is your turn to take the driver’s seat. Sometimes the road is going to get bumpy with uncertainty, the rain of criticism will blur your vision and exhaustion from change will make you want to pull over and let someone else drive. Shake off the temptation to jump back into the passenger’s seat. Why, because no one else can live your dreams. No one else can fulfill your purpose. Take control of the steering wheel, fight the exhaustion and drive with a renewed sense of determination because your destiny (destination) awaits you. You are prepared to drive!

Article submitted Friday, May 01, 2009 & read 91 times.

Leave Your Comments:


» left by sue thom from nj (1 year 91 days ago.)
Reader Rating: 5 out of 5
Hi Faith,
 
welcome to onsuchthings.
 
i loved this article, it is a great metaphor for life.
 
especially in these uncertain times. it is true, the only one we have control over is ourselves, and we decide how we will handle ourselves, especially important when the dark days come to visit. thank you for sharing, and i hope you continue writing,
 
my best regards,
 
sue thom
Respond to this comment
» left by Faith Walker (1 year 88 days ago.)

Thank you for the kind words.  It is great to find a place where people are sharing positive and encouraging thoughs and ideas.  I hope that you also continue to share articles like the "Why Not Make A Peaceful Retreat Within Your Home."

FaithWalker


Respond to this comment
» left by Teresa Ortiz (1 year 88 days ago.)
Reader Rating: 5 out of 5
Hello Faith Walker, (love the name)
 
Excellent analogy, very well-written, most importantly, very encouraging. Keep sharing, this is good stuff.
 
Blessings to you! Teresa Ortiz
Respond to this comment
» left by Faith Walker (1 year 88 days ago.)

Thank you for the encouraging words.  I will continue to share.  This is a great site.

FaithWalker


Respond to this comment
» left by Avis Ward(40) (1 year 6 days ago.)
Reader Rating: 5 out of 5
 

Late is better than never, yes? I so needed this, Faith Walker! Thank you for being the inspiration and wind at my sails. I'm in the driver's seat! A beautiful message for everyone. I pray you are still driving and wearing your seat belt. You know to whom the race is given . . . endure! Many blessings and I'm praying for you. *warm smile*

Respond to this comment
3-0-1-0-0-ADSO
Copyright (c) 2009-2010 OnSuchThings.com - All Rights Reserved