I saw blue lights flashing up ahead as I drove home this morning.

I always pay attention to blue lights because you never know what it may mean: lane closure, red light not working, someone getting a ticket, construction, or any number of things. I slowed down, made sure I was under the speed limit and craned my neck as much as safely possible.

Nosey?

Maybe a little. Ha!

What I saw broke my heart.

There were a couple of police officers talking to a young woman who looked extremely sad, troubled even? They were being kind to her, she didn’t look alarmed, just sad…really sad. Her clothes were worn and ill fitted, and her face looked years older than I’m sure she was. All I could think was, she’s somebody’s daughter, friend, and who knows, maybe she was a mom herself. I wondered how she got to this place? I’m sure she didn’t dream as a little girl to be standing on the side of the road talking to law enforcement.

I can’t get the scene out of my mind.

I am definitely praying for her… I know God sees.

As I drove on my thoughts began to drift to choices; specifically, the choices we make, or the ones made for us. How we get to where we are….

It was then I saw an elderly couple; they looked to be in their seventies. Both were tidy and dressed casually, walking on the sidewalk talking steadily to one another. Just as I was about to pass by, the older gentlemen put his arm around the lady and she smiled. My heart gushed with the sweetness of it. I want that kind of long-lasting love, I thought to myself. Who doesn’t want that? To be loved and cared for no matter the age. I know I am assuming a lot considering I only had a glimpse of their world while driving by, but, neither of the moments are lost on me.

We get this one life.

How we choose to live it will determine what it looks like at the end. I understand we don’t always get to control the circumstances, but what we do in the midst of our circumstances will determine a lot about the outcome. One outcome is misery and sadness, the summation of choices gone awry. A different outcome is strolling with loved ones around us, a smile on our face, the probable culmination of many hard choices.

I told you guys last week a quote that won’t leave me alone. “A hard choice now makes for an easier life later.”

Make the hard choice.

Do the right thing no matter what anyone else does or if anyone else understands. You won’t regret it. I can say this with full confidence because I’ve made good and bad choices in my life and dealt with the consequences for each.

Do the hard now, enjoy easier later:

Forgive them.

Create healthy boundaries.

Say yes to the things that bring you joy.

Say no when you need to.

Do the grind.

Create the budget, and live within it.

Don’t get caught up in what others think.

Say I’m sorry.

DO the hard things.

Do one hard thing today, maybe something you’ve been putting off.

Start small…

but definitely start.