Sometimes we get lucky. It’s that simple. This morning I was tremendously fortunate. Lucky. Circumstances were in my favor. I’m sitting with my gratitude, because it could have gone quite differently.

The unseen pickup truck that pulled out from a side street, speeding to cross the busy state highway during a rainy morning rush hour was close – so close. I had only seconds of reaction time, not enough for actual decision making, and barely enough to respond. I took my foot off the gas pedal, swerved right, around and behind the truck, into the street he turned out from, his lights off in the darkness, and then I turned back onto the highway on the other side as he pulled away. It was one smooth motion, no harm done, although I was startled and briefly angry with the other driver’s poor decision making on a rainy morning. No commute is worth dying for.

I drove on to the trailhead as the rain beat down on the car, and the traffic churned up the water on the road into a fine dense mist. I could have been terribly injured or worse this morning. I wasn’t. I breathe, exhale, and relax. I’m grateful for my good fortune. I reflect on my good fortune as I lace up my boots. The rain has slowed to a drizzle and although it’s wet and dark, I’ll manage to get a walk before work. Truly, I am fortunate.

I breathe the rain-fresh autumn air and smile, as I step onto the trail. I am grateful for the new day, and the chance to begin again.