Awhile back, I learned a new word – wayfinding.  I thought it was fascinating as it said exactly what it was, finding the way.  I never realized in a town, wayfinding was a critical aspect of leading visitors to the neighborhood highlights.  Town planners spend countless hours designing networks of signage. Without signs, it leaves it to chance for visitors to find the city’s core attractions. People would drive the streets aimlessly seeking the town’s treasures or blast right through not realizing the unique gifts the area has to offer. The benefit of signs purposefully leads visitors to the favorite public hangouts such as the best parks, libraries, the city pool, town center or roadside attractions.  Wayfinding provides connectivity.  Without the signs, passersby would miss the immersive experience of the area’s personality.

In life, there are wayfinding signs too.  Sometimes they’re not as blatant as a physical billboard but the indicators are there.  How observant are we to recognize the signage?  Signs are all about choices.  Which direction would you like to go?  What is the outcome you’re hoping to achieve?  We don’t always have the opportunity to know the impact of our selection, however, if we are mindful in choosing, our decisions can be made with confidence.  Bypass life’s indicators and we may spend futile efforts making corrections.  Shortcuts bring consequences.  The quicker path may get you there faster, but what experiences did you miss by curtailing the journey?  Were those missed experiences part of the greater purpose in seeking direction?

Being aware of life’s signs is essential.  Ask the question, are we forcing an outcome or did we truly ‘see’ the options laid before us before venturing out?  Revelation comes through prayer, patience and time. What resources are available to us?  The Bible, wisdom of others, quiet time – I have found each of these to be key components in seeking answers especially since I tend to be impulsive in my initial choices.  Gut reactions driven by emotions have resulted in less than favorable outcomes.  It has been an area of growth for me by getting outside of what I think I want and patiently seeking what the Lord wants for me.  His direction has not failed me.  His way is my life’s wayfinding system.  What’s yours?  How’s it working for you?