“Remember how the Lord your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years, to humble and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep His commands.”      Deuteronomy 8:2 (NIV)

One of the scenic stops along Park Loop Road in Acadia National Park is Thunder Hole. I marked it as a ‘must see’ when planning our trip to Maine. As we were exploring the park, I remember getting so excited when we came upon the parking area for Thunder Hole. I had read about the roar created when waves enter a carved-out portion of the rocky shoreline and the loud thunderous roar which accompanies it. I couldn’t wait to see if the tide was high enough to cause the large waves needed to create the sound and splash. It’s all about the timing to get the ultimate experience and I wanted the ultimate experience.

The parking area we came to was across the street from the landmark shoreline. With minimal signage, I looked for a path created by others that would surely lead us quickly to our destination. We made our way through some trees and across the street to the rocky shore. (When I say rocky don’t think stones, think boulders!) In the distance, I spotted people gathering near the area sure to be Thunder Hole, so we set out navigating our way over, across, between, through, up, and around the bouldered-beach. I was determined to get a close look and experience this natural wonder. Nothing was going to get in my way. Certainly not a few “rocks.”

Truth be told, my husband was so worried about me and my dexterity (or lack thereof) that he thought this wasn’t the best idea and suggested we reconsider. But I, motivated by curiosity and determination, would not be stopped. 

Finally, seeing our destination within reach we climbed atop a boulder for a better view. There it was – Thunder Hole! … and … a set of stairs … that obviously led up to the other end of the parking area. 

It is important to know that generally this is how I do things – the hard way; although, I prefer calling it the road less traveled. 

After taking in the sights and sounds which did not disappoint, we opted to take the stairs back to the Jeep. Go figure – stairs straight back to the parking area. We had a good laugh and added something else to the list of things I have put us through while on vacation. As I reflect on it now, I wouldn’t change it for anything. I pushed myself to traverse the rough terrain to reach this incredible sight for the experience. We made a great memory and I learned where to find the stairs should we have the opportunity to visit again.

Isn’t this how God works? Sometimes there’s an easier way but He allows us to take the long way to receive a lesson. In life when we struggle to navigate the unknown, we need to remember to pause and learn the lesson. Then, we can help others or remember the experience for our own benefit in the future. 

The Israelites spent 40 years in the wilderness traveling to the promised land to be humbled and tested before receiving their reward. That’s part of our journey too. 

The next time you’ve been over, across, between, through, up, around, or on the rocks only to discover the stairs were there all along, take time to learn the lesson and as always receive your blessing!