The Joy Route — Exit 17:22

The Joy Route — Exit 17:22

A Sasspoint Village Story by Anita T. Kumeh

“Next stop—Heartland,” said Auntie Michal, flicking her blinker like she owned the interstate of life.

We were on a spontaneous road trip. The kind that starts with, “Let’s just get out of town before somebody starts a monologue of murmuring.”

The sun was loud, the playlist was louder, and the laughter wrapped the moment in surround sound warmth.

“Check the GPS,” she said.

I squinted at the dashboard. “Uh… it says we’re entering Route Rejoice.”

“Perfect. Only joyful travelers allowed,” she grinned. “Anyone sulking gets dropped off at the next roundabout called Complaint Circle.”

We breezed past Tunnel of Tears—dimly lit, echoing with people who refused to let go of last week’s drama. Michal tooted the horn. “We’re not renting emotional property there!”

“Preach!” I said, waving out the window like a liberated disciple.

A few miles later, we stopped at Grace Station.
The fuel attendant’s badge read “Mercy.” Her smile said she’d been refilled, too.
“Premium joy or regular peace today, ladies?” she asked.

“Double dose,” Michal said, “We’re headed through Contentment County and want to make it before sundown.”

She filled our tank and prayed over the windshield—“May laughter clear your view and gratitude steer your ride.”

We shouted “amen” and rolled on, giggling at a billboard that read:
“Caution: Heavy Blessings Ahead. Roads May Get Slippery with Goodness.”

By the time we reached Laughing Bridge, even the car seemed to sigh with delight.
That’s when we spotted the final sign:

EXIT 17:22 — A MERRY HEART DRIVE

Michal slowed down. “Well, darling,” she said, “this must be our destination.”

We pulled over by a roadside café named The Grateful Griddle. Folks were smiling at strangers, humming hymns over pancakes. Even the syrup bottles were standing like rice bread waiting for tea—sweet, serious, and not here to play.

As we sipped our hibiscus tea, she leaned in and said, “You see, joy isn’t a detour—it’s the main road. Some folks think it’s extra, but really, it’s essential maintenance.”

And right there, between the sugar packets and the laughter, we agreed—life runs smoother when your joy tank stays full.