Recently, I was walking with my son through a store, and a coloring book caught my eye. The book was an elaborate adult coloring book, and under most situations, I would have not have given it a second thought. What made this one so special was the subject. The title on the cover read “The Road Not Taken.” I couldn’t help but open the book. Inside I found my favorite poem written by Robert Frost.
The text transported me back to high school and my fantastic choir director, Gary Patterson. How blessed I was to have this amazing man guide me and teach me how to love choral music and the art of music-making. My journey started with this poem. This incredible writing, now asking for color.
I bought the book and procrastinated, in the beginning, working on the first picture. What was the proper way to start? I’m afraid I will mess this up. It took me some time to realize that the right way to color is the way my spirit guides me. This is my path, my way. Under God’s guidance, everyone must choose their own road.
And so, we start with whatever color works for each of us. Some may utilize vibrant dark colors, while others paint in lighter hues. Careful decisions must be left to the discretion of the artist. We respect each person’s choices.
Today, I give thanks for the journey that calls me to notice colors that make my life more vibrant and more vital. As school begins, I also remember and give thanks to teachers who changed the trajectory of my life. I can never express my appreciation for their willingness to show me how to color with a passion that infused my soul. I am grateful for my music teachers who enriched my life by sharing the joy that singing continues to bring to me.
Who are the teachers who taught you how to color? Give thanks to those people who made a difference in your life. Their guidance ignited the divine spark in your heart and soul. These are the people who matter, for they taught you that you are created in the image of the Holy God. Their legacy taught you that you matter. Your journey was, and is, something to behold. Lift a prayer for them right now.
“I shall be telling this with a sigh somewhere ages and ages hence. Two roads diverged in a wood and I, I took the one less traveled by. And that has made all the difference.” (The Road Not Taken, Robert Frost).
From a Pastor's Point of View 
Love this. Love Frost and this poem in particular. It has always spoken to me in a special way. And of course we all sang it in the Frostiana series. Special memories. Thank you.