Ken and I walked this morning when the temperatures were in the teens. Looking like grown-up versions of Charlie Brown, we outfitted ourselves with two layers of pants, gloves, scarves and hats. And good cheer.
The air around us echoed only quietness. The ground crunched slightly as we walked across it. Stars shone brightly and we were fine and fit. We walked and talked and prayed. And the world slept around us.
I love to walk in the crisp coldness of winter. I look for lights on houses and revel in the quiet. I feel very alive walking in the cold.
Given to me years ago by a Johnson City, NY friend, a favorite book of mine, "Not Faster Than A Walk" tells in short, daily essays, the adventures of a small town librarian who made it a practice to walk, regardless of the weather. Each entry captures a time and a place and a feeling. The book is now out of print but worth tracking down. Wonderful little woodcut prints grace the pages and although it is a slim volume, I read it time and time again. And I'm enriched by her love of nature and her connectedness to it.
Yes, baby, it's cold. But get outside with a loved one and embrace it. Your cheeks and your heart will be warmed by the experience.
No comments:
Post a Comment