I’m a walker. I walk most everyday. I’ve written about it here before and I am again, because it’s a big part of my life. I’ve recently taken up swimming and, while I enjoy it, I always go back to walking.
Most every day, weather permitting (as long as it’s not a downpour coupled with wind), you’ll find me walking the beach near my house. And most everyday I find what I call treasures. Some of my favorites include: a giant barnacle, a mermaid’s purse (Big Skate egg case), the remains of a pelican, my many hag stones, a pig taking a walk and the appearance of a Black Oysercatcher (he’s pretty elusive). And my most memorable treasure was the time I watched a bald eagle dive down and scoop up a gull out of the water, take him to the edge of the surf, begin to prepare his meal, and then carry him off. I was frozen for a full three minutes watching this take place about 20 yards from me. WOW!
I’ve been a walker most of my life. It has served me well. Walking keeps me fit both mentally and physically, and those times I go with a friend keeps me engaged. Looking for my daily treasures keeps me in the present moment and keeps the adventure (2025 Word of the Year) going. I have been blessed to live in extraordinarily beautiful areas that inspire awe and walking is the best way to experience that for me.
You’d think walking the same beach every day would get boring, but it’s not. The tide is at a different level, it develops small sand dunes every summer, the wind changes direction, the shorebirds entertain. So you see, it’s really not the same beach at all.
I know not everyone enjoys walking, or is capable of walking, or has the time for long walks, so I try not to take the gift of walking for granted. This is especially true after my surgery to repair my broken ankle and I was prevented from taking those long walks for a few months. I’m so happy to be back at it.
If you’re a walker like me, make a commitment to devote time to it everyday. Find the awe, look for the adventure, seek treasure. If you’re not, that’s okay, I won’t hold it against you. Like yoga? Painting? Kite flying? Find your passion and devote some time to it everyday. It will keep you vibrant and is good for the brain.
I plan to enjoy an adventurous life full of long walks and treasures and awe for as long as I am able, which I hope is a very long time. What is your plan?
Carolynne
Another meaningful shared story! Thank you.