photo by Flickr user Black.Dots.

A couple of years ago, my pastor mentioned the mysterious sliding rocks of Racetrack Playa in Death Valley, Calif.

Apparently these huge, heavy boulders move hundreds of feet without explanation. The tracks show clear evidence of movement, but science can’t precisely explain how or why it happens. Is it wind, ice, earth, animals or some combination?

Theories abound, but the mystery still prevails.

Using this illustration, the pastor prodded us to contemplate the transition from this year to the next. We may feel pretty much the same day to day, but over the course of a year, we’ve probably moved from one place to another.

Was it by our own efforts, circumstance, the economy, politics or some greater plan? We can’t say for sure, but the fact remains, we’ve probably been moved, changed, or transformed in some way.

Were you moved in 2010?

I’ve been moved by many things, such as the growth of my children and the selfless support of family, church and community.

Even if I don’t feel like I’ve changed so much, I’ve surely been moved. And when we move, we leave tracks.

What tracks have you left behind?

I hope that I’ve left some tracks of loving care. I’m quite sure I’ve skidded a few times, and when I’ve scorched the earth, I hope I’ve made good repairs.

And finally,

What will move you in 2011?

We may not have complete control, but we do have some influence. Will we drift with the winds of the times? Or will we set our sights in a new, hopeful direction?

I believe our goals, our energy, our prayers and affirmations can influence the direction of our tracks. Most of all, I hope my path is properly aligned and that I’m brave enough to move forward.

What about you?

May your boulders be light and your path be clear in 2011.

Pam Stout coordinates Faith & Home & Garden coverage for AnnArbor.com. She can be reached at pamstout@annarbor.com