Walk To The Store

Want to gain a new perspective? Walk to the neighborhood grocery store. Or gas station. Or, you name it.

The change will take some time, so plan on repeat trips. Wear good shoes and take water. Walk facing traffic. Be here now. Notice the (people, places, things) that where simply non-existent in a moving machine.

Fragrant flowering living things. Dead, smelly, lifeless things. That old and abandoned house hidden by the trees and vegetation. The feeling of excitement in the gut at finding it. Just like when you were a child.

Notice how the time that it takes to get to your destination appears to shorten with each journey. Pay attention to the faces of the on coming drivers. Whole paragraphs can be read in those faces. They were your expressions at one time.

Expect the unexpected. The stranger who sees you walking all the time and offers a ride. At the very moment you could use it.

Be prepared for that oft repeated refrains:

"Man that is one long walk."

"I had to walk when my car was (insert problem here) and I know that is one tough walk!"

"You walked all the way here, from where you stay?"

Your footwear will behave different in each season. Road heat and sweat will reduce cushioning and increase risk of blisters. The shoulder is your friend, sometimes.

The cold causes the feet to contract. A loose fit will promote blisters. Insulated boots will promote sweat. Wear good non-cotton socks.

Take care of your feet. They are your main means of transport.

Want to gain a new perspective? Walk to the store.