In so many ways, I am just like a car. I have not worn a pedometer all my life, so I don't know my mileage. I also don't know how much real wear and tear I have sustained over the 57 years since this human vehicle was loaned out to me. I am pretty sure it is a loaner. I may be the original user, but I did not create this make and model. My parents might have, but then who created their make and model?
I have an exterior and interior. I have an electrical, cooling, and exhaust system...just to name a few. I have mechanical parts called joints, bones, and muscles that like a car become worn out over time. I am sure there are things under the hood that can't even be reached or diagnosed. Anyway, I think you get the picture.
Cars take a lot of upkeep if they are going to last awhile. It is called maintenance and repair. We all know how much time, money and energy it takes to keep anything running smoothly and to extend its lifetime. The more complicated the vehicle, the more resources seem to be needed.
Cars are pretty complicated. There are specialists for body work, cool paint jobs, and engine work. Some mechanics are specialized in different areas, like mufflers or brakes. Still others specialize in specific makes and models.
Human vehicles have a disadvantage because EVERY single one around is its own unique make and model. We try to make people fit certain categories, to make diagnostics easier...but we are talking about VERY complex and ONE OF A KIND vehicles. This can make repair and maintenance very challenging at times. People do not come with a PERSONAL MANUAL! And to make matters worse, they do not come with a warranty or a guarantee.
But there is more... besides dealing with the complex physical aspects... the human vehicle has EMOTIONS and FREEDOM. And these emotional aspects are ALSO complex and unique. I am responsible for taking care of this vehicle loaned to me. Without a personal manual and with more and more knowledge of this complexity... I become VERY AGITATED... my engine revs, I don't know which gear to pick. I get stuck in the mud and spin my wheels. This is NOT good for my vehicle! And while I am busy figuring out what it needs and how to meet those needs, I miss the trip I am on.
There is more... I feel like I am on the trip alone sometimes. Nobody knows my make and model but me. But I am really happy there are other vehicles on the road. Some don't follow the rules and I can get road rage. But for the most part, they too are trying to make this trip without too many breakdowns. Knowing all of this can at times make me feel overwhelmed and alone. And knowing all of this has filled me with compassion and grace for my fellow travelers... but only when my tank is full of God's fuel...better known as LOVE.
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