When did I stop thinking life was dessert?

The young boy, intent on his destination, entered the forest under a canopy of vibrant green, spring leaves just emerging on the branches above him. But he didn't notice. He walked on velvety moss, moist and full of recent rains. But it did not catch his attention. Sounds and creatures all around him clamored for recognition, to no avail. Then. He stumbled and fell, a bruised toe quickly embraced in his little hand. His focused determination to move through the forest was halted and he was forced to be still right where he was. Slowly, he began to notice.....things. A bird's nest hung precariously in the branch, just out of reach. As he watched, the mother bird arrived to four famished, cheeping babies. A rustle in the bushes next to him followed with a small brown body, striped down the back. A chipmunk. He lay back to watch the world around him. For several minutes, life revealed itself to him, beautiful, wonderful, promising. This forest could be my life.....And occasionally, God orchestrates the opportunity for me to halt. Be still. And see that He is good. How many children will rush through and tolerate dinner, just to get to the dessert? What a shame that the meal has not been enjoyed, also. What if dessert WAS the meal. What if the meal was as good AS dessert? What wonders am I missing in my life because I am so busy I cannot notice or take time to appreciate them? To what extent does my life indicate that I am in control and do not have time to be grateful for the dessert all around me? Am I working toward making my life happy when I could BE happy as I move through every day, on my way to.....wherever it is the Lord is taking me? Perhaps instead of dragging the Lord along, convincing Him this is the right way, the best plan, I should slow down. Stop. Walk WITH Him, waiting to see what He has planned and enjoying the forest as we go.....