Karl and The Fork in The Road

"There comes a time in a man's life where he either has what he wants or the excuses as to why he doesn't."
-Andy Roddick (according to The White Knight).

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Karl found himself asking this question as he framed the contract and hung it conspicuously on his wall- a reminder that he trusted people to be honorable; and decent. He needed a stark reminder for his foolishness and this would be it.

What he didn't have was obvious; but now the only exit from this dead-end section of life's maze was to humbly retrace his steps; to go back the way he came; to search for the fork wherein he chose the wrong way.

On his journey, Karl bumped into the people he'd seen and spoken too along the way. To his delight, many remembered his face, his laugh, and their brief encounter. Many offered him advice, shelter, and a bite to eat. People who asked him tough questions- questions he accepted and solemnly digested. Some scolded him for the distance he kept since their last encounter. Karl, atoned for his transgressions and spoke the truth in hope that he'd regain their good favor.

As he made his way back to that fork; he was careful not to give false directions knowing that the dead end he'd found was his, and not necessarily another's.

He was careful to be grateful and thankful to the people who extended their generosity, encouragement, and hospitality.

He was especially careful with the people who sought faith, advice, and trust in him. He was careful not to abuse their trust and their vulnerabilities. Karl had very little now but his character and faith that life would meet him somewhere in the middle. He hoped that it would happen sooner than later.

In a moment of solitude, Karl remembered a friend who had recently confessed to having prayed for him every week. Perhaps it was time to start praying for them too.

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"You that would judge me, do not judge alone
This book or that, come to this hallowed place
Where my friends’ portraits hang and look thereon;
Ireland’s history in their lineaments trace;
Think where man’s glory most begins and ends,
And say my glory was I had such friends."

-W.B. Yeats