Origins of The Black Road

The Black Road is a landmark located in the town of Hinton, Alberta, Canada. The unofficial name originally comes from a literal description of the freshly paved asphalt walking path. In contrast to the surrounding sidewalks and streets, it appears a stark black. However, baked by the sun over time and worn by the feet of its travellers, it slowly fades to a pale gray that blends with all the other pavement.

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The more significant meaning behind the name though perhaps comes from those who might venture down it themselves, because more than just a landmark, to me it is a symbol of one's walk through life. For many years it has been a place of familiar territory and fond memories for myself and several of my friends. It is a place where change takes its shape within a person following the joy of triumph or the hardship of defeat. As I revisit it over the years and notice my life changing while the road stays the same, I'm reminded that our present circumstances don't have to define the journey ahead, and that how well you thrive is determined by your ability to adapt in an unrelenting world. But ultimately, for myself, it has served as a place of refuge amidst the highs and lows in life; a sanctuary for thought and feeling.

There is a kind of mystery in the black road which enchants me and it lies in this question that I suppose only time can answer:

"Is it a beautiful path to a dark place?... Or a dark path to a beautiful place?"