Red Light

Everything happens for a reason. That is a popular saying but there is merit to it, especially if we believe that there is a Divine force that allows things to happen or not happen for our benefit or growth. And one particilar incident this week confirms what I already knew - "God 'ave mi back" (English translation: God has my back). 

A few days ago, Jamaica had "Nomination Day" to formally nominate the candidates who will be vying for our votes come September 3 (choosing orange or green). It was also a day I was home. Recognising that I needed to get food and a few other items, I planned to make a quick trip during what I considered good timing. It would be right after an online meeting and just before the lunch crowd. Great plan, right? 

I got dressed, grabbed my bag and headed to the car. I drove out of the parking lot. I got to the automatic gate...except I didn't get all the way through. The car shut-off with my back bumper not yet beyond the gate. It was as though I was not meant to leave the property. I had to quickly take out my gate remote in case the gate started to close. Fortunately, I was able to restart the car and but instead of continuing on the journey, I went back to my parking spot. I called my mechanic and told him what happened. He suggested I try driving around the complex to see if the issue happened again. I didn't get more than about 2 metres from the parking spot before the car shut off again. This time, my efforts to turn off and restart were futile for a few tries. The problem: I was now blocking the driveway for other cars. So I kept at it, and revved the engine until eventually it stayed on long enough for me to reverse back to my spot.

Obviously I was not meant to go anywhere that day. What was interesting to me is the fact that my car has the colour of one of the political parties, and as I was driving out, there was a parade passing with a sea of supporters of the other party. I recalled a few years ago, someone I know had a car the colour of one party. She was told not to go back to a particular place because of it (there was no hidding their feelings). We have matured as a people since then, but there is still more growing to do. I could not help but think of that incident when my car issues emerged but truthfully, I was not afraid.

Whether it was related to politics or something else, I firmly believe there was Divine intervention that day. Moreover, when the mechanic came a day later, the car started and drove like nothing was wrong with it. In fact, he took it to his base, cleared an air valve (I think that's what he said) and returned to me, all without any signs of the problems recurring. I drove the car subsequently as well and it ran smoothly. No shutting off, sputtering or anything of the sort.

Everything happens for a reason, even the "red lights". Thank God for that!