The drive up Oklahoma’s state highway 59 from Sallisaw to Miami is known by many Oklahomans and those out-of-state to be one of the most beautiful and picturesque treks anywhere in the United States!
That is why Iowans Trevor and Angela Collins were so disappointed when the day dawned with rain in late June, 2007. Never, so far as anyone in the area could remember, had Oklahoma received so much rain in the month of June. By the time, they reached Stillwell it was still rainy, foggy and travelers’ advisories warned of flash flooding in some low lying areas, impassible roads and mudslides in others. And yet they went on. They felt they had traveled too far to see this stretch of the state to be detained by a little rain.
Eventually the state highway patrol would discourage and close of areas because of the water levels, mud and impassable roads. They were able to dodge some of the inclement weather but not for long.
And yet they were able to see some of the most beautiful landscape they had ever seen. Anywhere. Any time. Even in the midst of less-than-ideal conditions, the rolling hills, forests and valleys revealed their majestic beauty as it was a sun shiny day.
Memories of their trip to eastern Oklahoma, according to the Collins, would remain with them for the rest of their lives. Not so much for the scenery but for the lesson they reported it taught them. Instead of concentrating on the rain, storms and mudslides that block or wash away a person’s chosen paths, just take it easy, slow down and think about all of the blessings that God has seen fit to give them—a country where freedom reigns, family, friends, food, water, air, good health, the ability to see, walk, talk, think, a home and much, much, more!!!
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