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THE ROAD TO UPINGTON

Recently I was on a road trip to Upington, a town in Northern Cape in South Africa, to a friend's engagement party. Upington is known for being one of the hottest places in the country. And as hot as it was, and as far and as long as the drive was, I decided to just take the task that was before me with the eyes of curiosity and wonder of what lies out on the stretch of road. I always love going on adventures and travelling to places I've never been (a very effective way to keep life always interesting and fresh).  A full nine hour minibus drive I finally reached my destination. First time here, and I arrived at the “wee” hours of the morning, 4 a.m. to meet my ever-so-special-and-crazy friend whom I have never met but have been friends for six years (he was counting) via Facebook alone.

There was no catching up to be made either than on my sleep, then by seven in the morning we hit the ground strutting. I didn’t plan to do anything except eat and watch to loving people get engaged, but it seemed that my friends had other plans for my first time visit.  Skipping the unnecessary bits of information, the event was just amazing, and played decorators assistant (which was never my plan) and just enjoyed the unfolding of the evening.

The inspiration to write this piece came as I was now making my way back home with some backpackers (got a lift back to Joburg) and it hit me.

 Life really is a lot like a road trip. (I know it has been said many times and but it’s always good to revisit what you always know, in order keep it fresh and alive). Again, Life is like a road trip. Some roads are easier to drive. Some are not. Some roads are longer, others are shorter. But the design of the vehicle that's on them is always powerful to handle any terrain, and  The vehicle I am referring to is the human spirit. It is up to each drive to decide on which terrain he will put it through so as to see its resilient power, or if he will just allow it to parish in the dusty deserts of inhibition or ignorance.

The roads (to success and joy) are laid before you for you to trod, and each one works with the same road rules. Keep your vehicle road worthy. Drive in the designated area (if applicable). Keep to the speed limit (if applicable). And more importantly – Be vigilant.

You are always in the driver's seat of your life. And you always have to assume responsibility for whatever happens to you and how you handle the unforeseen occurrences. You may not carve out the path as you may wish it to be, but it is up to you to fit your vehicle with the necessary essentials. Good tyres, good oils, good gasoline, and good travelling companions and  good mindset and focus on your goals to make each of your journeys pleasant and the destination as smoothly reached as you could make it.

“Life is a highway, I wanna ride it all night all.”  ~ Bon Jovi

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