Take a Walk

I had a great walk to the Farmer's Market this morning.  I love my neighborhood - there's so much to the scenery along the way.  So many colorful gardens and greenery.  It's a perfect place for walking, talking with the Lord, and meeting new people.  It seems everyone is out and about in our 'hood. 


Walking is my exercise of choice and I do enjoy it - for the most part.  I've done the gym routine, which can be an option for a rainy day. Since we have many rainy days here in Portland, I don't mind the wet walks. I've been soaked to the skin on several occasions.  I'm not a fast walker, but can walk several miles at my pokey pace.  Just recently, I came across an interesting blog - Walking as Worship.  The author talks about her struggle with exercise - that it really is not fun, and her enthusiasm falls far short of her exercise coach, and particularly her husband....who runs....like mine.  This caught my attention.
A year ago I took part in the Portland Fit program that prepares walkers and runners for the Portland Marathon.  It was Ron's desire for me to benefit from what he enjoys...running.  So, I signed up and took the weekly challenge as my goal to walk the half marathon in June.  I did it, I completed it...even though I was 4th from last to cross the finish line!  


In all the working out - increasing miles every week to reach that goal - there was the pressure to increase my walking time.  This was discouraging as I attempted to take part in Portland Fit again this year.  From physical challenges, to weekly schedule interruptions, emotional let-downs - this year lost its appeal.  I honestly didn't like the pressure.  


So, when I read the Walking as Worship blog - it was encouraging to read someone else didn't like the pressure, either.  But, her point was to make walking a time for worship. Just that thought alone shifts the intention for staying on course to being healthy.  

"And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."

Colossians 3:17

Walking through my neighborhood is a sight to behold.  Gardens are everywhere, on every stretch of sidewalk - the creative colors are inspiring - not to mention the engaging conversations with a walking partner or a neighbor out on their own excursion.  It's feeling refreshed rather than pushing how far or how fast. 

This mid-season of my life has presented all sorts of challenges and changes - physically, emotionally, spiritually.  I'm encouraged my goal isn't to keep up with the Endorphin crowd, but to worship in gratitude and joy of what God has given me.