Home What Story and Why How to Tell
What's New Blog Life Story Resources Research is Fun Get Started Sample Writing Free Newsletter Articles About Contact Us Privacy Terms
|
When I WalkAn article by Tom Gilbert - copyright ©April 7, 2018![]() When I walk I go to another place. Literally, of course, as in the places my feet take me. But I am speaking also of another place, a meditative and contemplative space, where I can think, reflect, dream and just be. For me, walking is more than exercise. Surely it does satisfy that necessary movement of body parts. Staying fit and limber is important, especially as I age. When I walk, however, my perceived age is not my actual chronological age. Certainly I do not feel sixty-two as I stroll, amber or trudge the path. The Path. Part of my purpose in walking is to be on this Path. Not a destination, instead a journey. When I walk I write. Yes, my head composes thoughts and reflections that often turn into prose. I walked about a mile and a half before sitting down to write this piece. When I walk I slow down. I take in
the surroundings, breathe the air (which today was a bit challenging
since the trees are blooming and my allergies have awakened!), and my
sense of smell and sight goes to work. Even walking at a good pace I am
moving slower than traveling in a car, riding a bike or running. This
allows me to take in my surroundings with a greater awareness. That is
important, for all too often I am in a hurry and looking in instead of
looking out. Although I’ve been a distance runner for a dozen
years or so, I am now discovering that walking is more to my
liking. When I walk I know I am alive. My true me comes forth, whispers in my ear, all is right no matter what you think. Be here now. Present yourself to nature and creation. Your little worries, problems, faults and regrets can be brushed aside for thirty minutes or an hour. Just walk. Just be. Everybody has a story to tell!
![]()
|