Early this morning, I had the chance to walk at a local lake. It was a chilly fall day and I bundled up in my scarf and gloves. Trying to practice mindfulness, I notice the stillness of the water, the noise of the geese, and the crunch of the leaves beneath my feet. A few lone fishermen were sprinkled around the lake…some standing along the shore and others in their boats. I wonder if they, like me, feel the same sense of spiritual and emotional renewal in this sacred space of nature.
As I continued along the 2.6 mile path, I noticed a fundraiser for the St. Jude Children’s Center was being held. Volunteers of all ages were preparing for the oncoming walkers. Young boys were manning a water station. Several adults were placing signs along the walkway. Where the pavement split, there were arrows, ensuring event participants stayed on the main path. There were also signs expressing gratitude and encouragement, and I couldn’t help but smile at the “You Rock” sign. Further along the path, several teenage girls were bundled in their winter jackets as they stood on the bridge where a patch of ice was lurking. “Watch out for the ice,” they said as I approached, while pointing to the safe side of the walkway.
Although not a part of the event, I couldn’t help but reflect on how nice it felt to be cared for and how important it is for each of us to establish our own ‘markers’ and support systems in life. For me, a vision of what gives my life meaning and purpose, along with my core values, are the arrows throughout my journey. And, yes, I’ve definitely gotten lost and missed those markers many times. Similarly, I’ve often forgotten about those special individuals I know I can count on to tell me “I Rock” when things get tough. How is it that we can miss markers along our journey? As I finish my second lap around the lake, I take comfort in knowing that I can find signs if only I stop long enough to reflect and ‘see’ them.
Stop now and look at your own path. What markers of direction and support do you see? What might they be telling you? Where alongyour path might you need more markers of direction or support?
