While walking along a familiar path by the Mississippi River, I noticed something for the first time—a homemade ladder, partially hidden, leading up a tree, attached to a rope swing for jumping into the water.
It’s mid-October, and the leaves on the tree-lined shore are turning yellow, which made the ladder both blend in and stand out. I had walked this particular path several times before, but the ladder and swing never caught my eye until now. Was it always there, or had I simply never noticed?
Life often presents us with hidden pathways—opportunities we might overlook because we’re not ready or simply not paying attention. Like the ladder blending into the trees, these opportunities can be partially visible, waiting for the right moment when we’re ready to pursue them.
The swing and ladder were probably in full use during the summer months—teenagers swinging out over the river, jumping into the water with glee. But now, as the season changes, they are quiet, unused, yet still full of potential.
Life is like that sometimes. We might pass by opportunities in one season, only to find them again in another, still offering us a chance to climb higher, swing out, and take a leap.
Do we notice? Are we ready to climb the ladder when we do?
The hardest part isn’t finding the ladder rather it’s deciding to take the steps—unsure of what awaits us at the top and whether the rope will hold. It takes curiosity and courage to pursue these hidden paths, and often, the first step is simply acknowledging they exist.
As you head into the weekend, look for hidden ladders and rope swings awaiting your curiosity and bravery. Perhaps there are pathways quietly waiting for you to notice them. It might be the perfect time to pause, take a closer look at the familiar, and see what you’ve been walking past. There might be an adventure, a new direction, or a hidden joy waiting, if only you’re ready to see and pursue it.
Two Links Du Jour:
Learning to Identify and Seize Opportunities in Life – Well Working & Living
10 Ways to Realize Hidden Opportunities – WeLEAD
Two Minutes Du Jour 
One response to “Hidden Pathways: What We See When We’re Ready”
A very beautiful message today! Thank you for your wisdom! 🙏🪜🍂
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