"If I were to ask directions - how would you explain to me how to get to trouble?" I know his words were meant to be part of the running banter that we had in the grocery store, but they stopped me cold. I tried to give a witty retort, but it fell flat and left me with that lingering question.

What ARE the directions to trouble?

I spent my entire ride home thinking about how to explain how to get to trouble but found it would be easier to explain how to avoid trouble. Getting TO trouble can be as simple as refusing to change - change directions, change attitudes or change visions. Avoiding the trouble that lurks like a lion around every corner can be a little more difficult.

The more I pondered that one question the more I realized it is the same for my life walk, a walk in the park and even a drive down the road. I have to make an effort to keep trouble from winning its prey.

Tips for Staying Out of Trouble

- Keep an eye on the road in front of you. You draw a straighter line if you keep your focus on the point where you want to go and not on the place where you are at this moment.

- Keep an eye on the road behind you. The past should never be allowed to dictate the direction of your future, but you will never get to where you want to go if you refuse to let the past teach you the lessons it has to offer.

- Keep an eye on the things around you. The world will continue to throw obstacles in your path to try and knock you in the ditch. Be aware of the things swirling around you but keep your focus on the path ahead.

- Keep an eye on the instruments. You need to know the condition of the vehicle carrying you own the path so you can deal with any issues before they become major problems.

- Keep an eye on the rules. No matter how well you keep up with all of the other elements of your trip, not knowing the rules will land you in trouble (and possibly in danger). Get the manual and study the manual until the rules become as ordinary as breathing.

Trouble will stalk you and try to pull you into its web. I may live in a world of rainbows and lollipops, but I am not deluded enough to think that trouble has vanished from the earth. I have to continually prepare and plan for the trouble if I going to be able to continue dwelling in my own little world.

I may not be able to avoid trouble, but I can stay out of trouble by staying alert.

Directions to Avoid Trouble:

Stay focused on the path ahead while using the past to provide wisdom and insight for the next step and be aware of the chaos around you without allowing the squirrels to cause you to swerve into the ditch.

Kathryn Lang writes and speaks on topics that focus on the good, positive and uplifting. She seeks to provide inspiration and motivation for the hearts and lives of others. You can get more tips about living an encouraged life with her new book, “Practical Proverbs,” now available. The book focuses on 8 traits from Proverbs and practical tips to make those traits a part of your life. Find out more about Kathryn and her Proverbs journey by visiting her websitewww.kathrynlang.com or visitingwww.proverbs31life.com.