When you are driving eastbound on the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76/I-70) and wish to continue east on Interstate 70 towards Baltimore, you must exit, pay your toll, and drive through several red lights before turning left that takes you eastbound to Maryland.
And at that point you have seen Breezewood, PA – fast food, some lodging, truck stops and diesel fumes.
We chose to spend the night here at the Breezewood Quality Inn. It met my prime non-expense account criteria – clean, good service and affordable.
Travel tip – if you want to experience a quaint and picturesque town, stay in nearby Bedford.
However, if you merely wish to refuel and rest, Breezewood fits the bill. And in the morning, you might view the beauty of morning mist on the surrounding ridges. Peace that surrounds the rumbling commerce.
Almost a century before, Breezewood was established as a place of refueling at the intersection of US 30, I-76 and I-70. Before the Pennsylvania Turnpike was built, it was desolate except for several generations of a family that had farmed the area. Today the town’s purpose is not to provide a destination, but rather to provide a necessary rest stop along the journey’s way.
Like motor vehicles, we are in constant need of refueling for all aspects of our lives – physical, spiritual, emotional and intellectual.
I found Breezewood lodging through Trip Advisor. Very convenient.
But how do we choose these other places for our personal needs to refuel, recharge and reset?
Where do we go to sit in those safe and peaceful places to rest, to reflect, to refresh, to redirect?
As each of us are unique, our refueling practices will vary. It could be solitary or among a collection of friends. In quiet prayer or meditation. Maybe in the middle of a woods or in a metropolitan concrete jungle. Taking a jog around the neighborhood or getting sufficient sleep. At a quaint bed and breakfast or by a truck stop.
Location and practice is a matter of preference. The important thing is to actually make that stop, not to keep pushing on down the road ignoring the gas gauge. Periodically, you need to stop and refuel before you are stuck at the side of the metaphorical road – empty and forlorn.
So I encourage you to make your own life map. Identify when and how you will refuel your body, your spirit, your emotions and your intellect. Make it a periodic practice. This is your life road map. It’s not that difficult and not that mysterious. It’s just a matter of being intentional. Prudent. Smart.
Refueling is essential. It supports your life’s journey.
And then along the way, remember to embrace the joy of your journey. Your very own precious life.
