Are we there yet?

This weekend, my son and I are enjoying a trip to the west side of Michigan. It was 5-hour drive from our home in Ohio to the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan.

Sometimes it felt like we would never get there. Miles and miles of roads.

Eventually we arrived, and I was able to enjoy an evening exploring the sand dunes and witnessing a beautiful sunset.

Have you ever been on a trip with a child who constantly asks, “Are we there yet?” Fortunately, I didn’t hear much of that this weekend.

However, I find myself asking that question often on my journey of growth and healing. I want to get to the end and everything be just the way I want it.

I’m so impatient sometimes, looking over at God and asking when I’m going to arrive. There are moments I want to say, “You’re God. Can’t you just get me there now?!?”

The reality is I need the journey. I need the struggle. I need the moments that test me, stretch me, force me to do that thing I find uncomfortable or unpleasant. Those are an unavoidable part of getting there.

If you’re anything like me, you need those reminders to be present in the moment and find the value in the journey. I know I need to open myself up to the lessons and blessings in every moment, not just the ones I’m pushing to get to.

Life is filled with twists and turns, construction and detours, a host of unexpected stops along the way. These are all part of getting us where we need to go.

When I ask, “Are we there yet?” I need to listen to the small, still voice whispering, “No, you’re not there yet. But you’re on the way.”