Sometimes, you have to let go of the past to make way for the future. For me, this has never been easy. I have a basement full of stuff to prove it! Yet there comes a time when something you’ve dreamed of for what feels like forever, well, it just becomes obvious that the dream is over.
And so it was with my Ford Falcon. Not just any old Falcon, mind you, but my favorite. A 1968 Ford Falcon Futura Sports Coupe, with a V-8. This baby used to turn heads back in a day. Any run to the local auto supply store was sure to elicit comments, compliments and questions. I suppose because I was a woman involved in the hobby, it drew extra attention.
Oh how I loved that car. It wasn’t my first. In fact, it was my third. But she was the prettiest, the way her paint shone and her chrome sparkled. Yup, a real head turner, if not for that particular make and model, then because she was unique.
And then things changed. I found myself expecting one last child. After she was born, safety became the issue, with the old style seatbelts and a car seat to consider. Distracted by motherly love, the old car became a fixture in the driveway. For a few too many years.
Without a garage, the elements took their toll. Shiny paint gave way to corrosion and sparkling chrome gave way to the shame of developing rust. It was time to restore or let go. I held on. Unable to acknowledge what wasn’t likely to happen, I let her sit. Just in case.
Oh yes, occasionally someone would stop by and ask if I wanted to sell her. Nope. No, thank you.
Then one day it happened. Caught in a weak moment and also by reality, I made a deal. And so she left me. A big part of me, my past, and who I was. Yes, there were tears. Tears for what I’d once dreamed of. Tears of regret, tears of loss, tears because a piece of my heart and who I was traveled down the road and away with her.
The driveway looks empty now. I kept a few momentos. Things that remind me it’s ok to dream. I have new dreams and goals now. And so these newer dreams have just a bit more room to grow.
Sometimes? You have to let go of the past to make way for the future.
~Carolyn
“Life isn’t easy. Together we can make it better.”
Wow she really did get messed up just sitting there! Just saying with the before and after! You don’t notice when u see if like everyday. Does she still run? Sad to see it go but long overdue, I bet you will love the space in the driveway now!
I asked the new owner to let me know when he restores her so I can see. He was kind enough to call me the very first night to let me know he got her running. He promised he would bring her back to life!
I took Diana to the prom in that car, do you remember?
Thanks for sharing! I love the pictures. I’m glad it’s going to a good family. Yes, sometimes it is hard to let go.
There’s so much Spiritual truth in this. Letting go of what’s old allows us to be ready for what God has next. Praying He will reveal it to you. 💞
Thank you, Tracy. :)
Hey Carolyn! I totally get it! Mine was a 1968 White Plymouth Valiant with a blue interior! That too, had a V8! It was passed down to my sister, who didn’t love her the way I did and alas, towed to the junk yard! She was a good car! Nice of the gentleman to keep you posted though!
Oh wow! White with blue interior. I’m drooling at the thought!
I can totally relate. Even just recently selling my Dad’s “play” car, which my Mom had actually NAMED was tough. Dad is still with us, but had nothing to do with the sale. I think that made HIM happy not to deal with the emotions. I am glad the new owner of your car will stay in touch. He obviously saw how you hated to part with it. Yes, onto
new dreams…
There are so many memories associated with our cars, like they’re part of our family, literally and figuratively. Oh, the sweet memories of your mom. Glad you could help your dad with the transition.