The trouble with wandering that after a bit a man looks around and the horizons are still there. There are nameless canyons and rivers still unknown to man. But a mortal man is suddenly old. The dream is there still, but rheumatism and weakening strength rob him of the chance to go further.”
–Louis L’Amour (Over on the Dry Side)
“Even so, I have noticed one thing, at least, that is good. It is good for people to eat, drink, and enjoy their work under the sun during the short life God has given them, and to accept their lot in life.”
–Ecclesiastes 5:18 (NLT)
————————
Yep, it seems like the ol’ starter is starting harder. I am reminded of a truck I often drove the summer I worked landscaping for Nuzum Nurseries in Boulder. It was an old Ford and was back in the days where the starter was on the floor. It was a temperamental truck and it was very hard to start unless it was parked on a hill. Whenever I drove it I made sure I did that so then I could let it roll and clutch start it. That was about the only way to get it going–let it roll first.
Maybe that’s the way I am, roll me out of bed and pop the clutch and see if I start. Then I might shuffle in my ol’ worn out moccasin houseshoes out to make the coffee. I’ve heard that a sign of being old is when after you retire you wear out your first part of houseshoes. Hmmm, well these barely hang on my feet. What does that tell you?
There are some things I still want to get done. What’s the term they use now–bucket list? The horizon is still out there and there are many places to see. By the way, none of them are cities. The ol’ rheumatize is sittin’ in, or something else that is contrary to the ol’ bones. Sure don’t want to get caught out like the rancher in Waddie Mitchell’s poem.
“Dad-gum the luck, this dad-burn truck has up and broken down
A’way out here in no-wheresville at least ten miles from town,
And I’ll have to hike, cuz it ain’t like I’m apt to hitch a ride
This late at night, cuz folks that’s right are snuggled tight inside.”
–Waddie Mitchell
Ever seem to just have bad luck? Now don’t go blamin’ the devil; most of the time he didn’t do it. Most of the time whatever happened was due to us, or simply life having its way. Now, don’t get me wrong; the ol’ devil does try and tempt us at times, but mostly it is this world system that belongs to him that does it.
But the devil sure doesn’t want you to get by in this life. Remember that he wants to steal, not only your joy, but also your soul. He’ll use anything to destroy what the Lord has given you. Best advice for the day–don’t let him do it!
Have a grand weekend, treat your mom kindly!