INNER STRENGTH ◽ YOU
You know the phrase we all say, “I need some air!” Fresh air can be good for the soul. You know what else it’s good for? Quality time with people you care about. My recent experience was going with my newfound friend and my two boys to walk my friend’s dog.
It was refreshing to see my oldest son, Brendan, quickly get off his computer game to join us on the walk. My youngest jumped at the chance to go for a walk with a dog. Since my boys and I only had a couple hours to visit, it was a perfect way to spend time together. As soon as we got settled outside, Brendan took the lead and told us about the last dream he had. It sparked an interesting conversation. Brendan has a hard time conversing in closed places where engaging things usually occur, such as playing games on the computer, so a walk in the fresh air made for a sweet reminder of what to do more often.
I appreciate Brendan’s creative mind. He paints a picture with his words. Brendan is a thinker but there’s no way to know what’s on his mind unless he is in an environment where he feels safe and free to share. He is free to share when his mind isn’t competing with other stimuli, as I previously mentioned. He is safe knowing that he is surrounded by people who care about him, and having a furry friend around also helps.
I wish I could tell you what it was about, but it’s not about what Brendan said. It’s about the experience. My friend and I piggy-backed off of what Brendan talked about. Matthew is a great listener and shares when he finds it fitting to, as well. He’s very passionate about animals, especially cute dogs. He took the lead at watching out for our furry friend. We all have our passions that feed out souls.
That day reminded me of one that, sadly, I had forgotten. You know a cool thing about the walk? It wasn’t at a park. It wasn’t on a trail. It was around the hotel where I was staying. There were multiple hotels by each other, with plenty of grassy space and sidewalks. So getting fresh air and taking a walk doesn’t have to look a certain way to be peaceful. I used to think it did. I have put off for way too long taking walks, because I wanted to be in a “pretty” spot. I am so thankful for my friend and her dog for reminding me that feeding the soul with fresh air doesn’t have to look “pretty” in the traditional sense. By making a connection, whether it’s with someone you care about, talking to God, reaching out to a lost loved one, or just being in the present by noticing what’s around you, getting out of your head for a while can give your soul the beautiful quality time it deserves.
Even though it was a short walk, it was a significant, memorable, peaceful moment. I will keep this in the back of my mind every time I feel like I need some fresh air.
So after reading this, I encourage you to reflect on these questions:
What does getting fresh air look like for you?
What feeds your soul?