Walking is my favourite exercise.
It’s easy, free and can be done almost everywhere and anytime.
Walking around a small town like Ladysmith is a great way to get a sense of place. Ladysmith is small enough not to worry about getting lost, and big enough to explore what is still unknown to us.
We can get to know our town by looking at the many different posters along First Avenue: community events, missing pets, garage sales, music lessons — all of the little things that add to a vibrant community.
The little things like saying “hello” to the people that pass by and visiting the wonderful downtown shops really help me feel at home here.
When my tireless two boys finally go to bed, I go out to walk downtown Ladysmith.
When the world around me finishes its day’s work, my sacred time begins with a tranquil stroll of this pretty town.
As I walk along, I listen to my body, mind and heart. As I breathe out, I let go of feelings and attitudes that are weighing me down, and as I breathe in, I receive a new energy and insight.
I try to pay attention to the world around me as if I were seeing it for the first time.
Truly, it is through the practice of paying attention that I can find a better understanding of who we are, that I can seek spiritual relevance in all things, and that I can fall in love with the world in which I live.
This practice of observing was the very first thing Jesus asked for when he was calling his first disciples by saying, “Come and see.” (John 1:39)
He was calling his friends to experience, engage and explore the world around them, knowing that God was already present in everything.
Paying attention is still the very first step for us to make a difference in our lives, community and the world.
We can do it everywhere and anytime. By paying attention to our family, friends, neighbours, and even strangers, we will see the world around us as we’ve never seen it before.
May God bless our attentive observation and enjoyment of our wonderful town.
