Fast forward to today. If I need to go to the store 2 blocks away, I drive. I live 4 blocks from the campus of the University where I work. Parking is very expensive too. But, do I walk? No, I drive and pay the outrageous parking fees while each year vowing to not renew my parking permit. I don’t even take the dog for walks now. I used to love going for hikes but now getting out means going for a drive. At least I haven’t reduced myself to taking my car to the end of the driveway to pick up the empty trash cans. Driving undoubtedly has its benefits but like anything else it can consume you and change your life in ways that are not so good. Walking allows you to see things you miss in a car. Trees budding in spring, your neighbors, children playing, houses take on a different character when you pass them on foot, you notice how everyone seem to be rushing here and there in their cars, the beauty of the sky, the birds that inhabit your neighborhoods and you can actually feel your body. I mean, walking helps put me tune into what is happing with my body. I feel the legs moving, the increased cardiovascular activity, the weight of whatever I’m carrying.

Driving is nice, but I need to do more walking.