Benjamin teaches me spiritual lessons every day. For the last several months, we have slowed down on our walks. I used to be such a go getter on the hikes- trying to get as much exercise as possible, trying to go as far as the farthest point, trying to wear my mind and body out. I have done it this way for as long as I have been walking, and now Benjamin is showing me the kinder way.
I walk slow, real slow somtimes. My walking now reminds me of the walking meditations I have done at retreats. Walking slow inherently makes me more present. I get to look around and notice things because there is no place I need to reach anymore. It’s all in the journey now. Benjamin likes to stop and lean against me often on the walk. This stopping allows me to pause the internal chatter as well. All that matters in that moment, is the reassuring touch I give my boy.
With no destination in my mind, I get to walk side by side with him, taking in each step. Sure, the mind is still going, but when I physically slow down- I notice that nature around me captivates me more. There have been years of walking where I barely noticed the beauty around me because the mind kept me so busy with nonsense. And now my teacher, Benjamin has asked me to slow down and take in what beauty and gifts Nature and the Present Moment have to offer.