Darkness surrounds me like a thick, black fog. Heavy pressure on my chest, makes my breath escape in quick, repeated inhales and exhales. Echoes of my sins whisper in my ears, and taunt me, causing my feet to stumble as I climb up the valley floor. How deep is this gorge? I knew the road would be long and take me through the unknown, but I never imagined that so much would be put on me at one time. I was told to trust. I was told to go straight. Forward. Onward.
Icy wind stings my face and creeps down my neck. I shudder and push dry, leafless branches out of my way. Heaviness from my journey persuades my eyes to close. I’m about to succumb and collapse, but then in the distance the first crack of dawn bursts forth like a beacon in sky. Streaks of gold and yellow revive my weary soul. With determination to leave this despair, I will my legs to sprint up to the top.
My heart beats like a drum as I take in the scene. Miles ahead piercing light crashes like a wave over the darkness and swallows it up as the sunlight rises over the land. My hands relax from the clenched fist they were locked in and instinctively lay across on my chest. A relieved exhale leaves my chapped lips as the sun’s warmth touches my face. I am free. For now.
I glance behind. Bare and gnarled trees loom along the forest floor, low whispers continue to carry in the wind, shadows shift, but I am free from that valley. I turn forward and see many highs and lows ahead. Trials, tribulations, fears, anxiety, confusion, doubt will try and hold me prisoner, but I know better. I smile from my newfound confidence. This journey strengthened my faith in the One. My armor is thicker now, my armor is tougher. Because I survived this valley, I am better prepared for the next one.