Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could simply run away? It seemed to be the answer when I was five years old and again when I was six, seven and eight. The thought occurred to me when I was in my teen years too, but I had no source of income and no place to run. When I became a mother, it seemed to be a daily thought, but never acted upon, because I’d finally become a responsible adult Or had I?

The thought of running away is still somewhere in the back of my head, but because I’m now an old lady I should be thinking more in terms of my last days here on earth. Instead, those two little words, “run away,” seem to be luring me into its web of deception once more.

This year has been a nightmare to many. In most cases, we can’t wait until it’s over. It started with an ongoing impeachment trial. Then in February the COVID19 virus reared its ugly head. Isolation, toilet paper and hand sanitizer became the words of the day. Graduations were cancelled. Students were put on an extended spring break along with teachers. Families got to know each other on a close quarters basis.

Summer was filled with “peaceful protests,” which turned into violence and looting. Again the ugliness of the world reared its ugly head and the voice of justice was drowned out by the words of hatred and deceit. Travel plans were placed on hold or forgotten completely, but somehow we survived. When the sunflower fields and corn mazes filled Facebook pages, and the colorful handiwork of God filled nature with a stunning canvas, hope sprang again as kids went back to school, although in a much different fashion.

October has turned into another badgering session placed upon a candidate for the SCOTUS – another means of campaigning for both political parties. In three weeks an election will occur, which undoubtedly will be contested into the next year or two or ten. Who knows, we may wind up living in a whole new world.

My opinions are mine alone and I expect I’ll get some flack from them, but honestly this has been a year to make us want to run away and hide. The ball drop in Times Square on December 31, 2020 will be virtual. There will be no crowds to control – only pre-recorded fireworks and confetti, ushering in a new year, but there will be no crowds. The suicide rate will rise and mental health is at an all time low. Depression is commonplace these days. It’s enough for one to long for the end of the world and Christ’s return.

Instead of running away, let’s run to the only One who never changes – the One who has already laid the blueprint for our lives – the One who knows what’s best for each of us. God will always be there. He will never run away from us, so let’s make a mad dash towards Him.