Today I walked a total of three miles from my home to the park and back. I wanted to jog to the park and back just like in the day; however, my body reminded me it was a different day.
What I learned on this walk is that sometimes our bodies remind us to slow down, observe the walking speed limit, and, most importantly, appreciate what you can do versus what you could do.
Today, as I strolled along the tree-lined streets, I observed the beautiful cottonwood trees and the tall majestic pin oaks with their stout trunks and lush green leaves painted against the deep blue background of the sky. I saw fields of corn with their rich verdant green leaves all pointing heavenward.
As several different birds sang overhead, I tried to distinguish the birds by their songs. I encountered a pair of raccoons busily foraging in the daylight. These are usually nocturnal creatures that seemed to have adapted to the bright sunlight. As I entered the park, I saw the fishes swimming, jumping, and playing in the water as they made ripples and sent concentric circles out from the point of their frolicking.
And then there was this family of ducks—beautiful greys and brown bodies, blue and green heads, and moving in unison. The father duck went ahead of the flock while the mother followed a bit behind with about 15 teenage ducks. Once they recognized my presence, the mother duck drew them close together and then gave me a warning to stay away. The father duck stopped moving as well to listen to the communication from the mother duck. I smiled because it was beautiful to see birds caring so tenderly and protectively of their children.
As I rounded the last bend towards my house, I couldn’t help but reflect on the news I received this morning that my youngest and remaining uncle died last night. I knew him well, and he lived life on his terms. But he is the youngest of eight children and is survived by three older siblings. Though he lived life on his words, I wondered if he ever took time to experience nature at its best. I asked whether he slowed down long enough just to walk.
I did not have the energy or motivation to jog this morning; however, I had a long, meaningful walk and connected with nature. I reflected on my history in this village, both the good and the bad. This village is where we raised our children.
I would like to encourage you to remember to take time to walk, even though you feel like a jog.
Stan Brooks, PhD