DEER IN THE HEADLIGHTS LOOK

 

 You know how it is—those mornings when you try to rush and somehow get farther behind. Yep, I had one of those mornings. I was running late to a Bible Study on 'Encouraging Words For a Discouraging World' and feeling pretty smug after making sure there was plenty of gas in the car and that I could make it on time if I just stepped on the gas a little.
    As I was driving, I could feel a mean minion, a metaphor for the negative thoughts and emotions that find a weak spot and try to take control, trying to make me lose my cool, freak out, get bent out of shape, flip out—oh, whatever you want to call it. I had rounded a curve, and there it stood: a 'little Bambi' standing in the middle of the road, giving me the ultimate deer-in-the-headlights look. (A little early in the day for that, fella!) I quickly checked the rearview mirror, wondering where the critter's momma was, and then slowed down to let the little one decide if it would fight or flight. (cue me getting frazzled). It decided on the flight.
    Next up, a garbage truck was sitting cock-eyed in the middle of the road. Being a good Samaritan, I stopped to let him readjust his rig. Naturally, the guy decided he was going in my direction, and, you guessed it, he stopped at every garbage can along the way to the study (cue me getting bent out of shape).
    Then, I encountered many fallen tree limbs strewn all over the driver's lane. It was like Mother Nature had a little temper tantrum. There were enough branches to rival a small forest (maybe I'm exaggerating a little!) blocking my way, forcing me to maneuver around them. (cue me getting my feathers ruffled).
    Finally, I made it. After an enlightening class on 'Encouraging Words For a Discouraging World' (how fitting was that?), I started home, feeling a pang of guilt for my impatience. I was convicted and mumbled my apologies to the Lord as I made a left-hand turn toward home.
    And then, a beautiful sight greeted me. Spring flowers, not just once, but twice. Bright yellow daffodils reaching for the sky, exuding a joy for life. It was a reassuring gift, a reminder that if He cares about the flowers in the field, I'm also being cared for.