There is a cute expresion I have heard. 'You can talk the
talk, but can you walk the walk?' someone once challengd me.
That was in reference to sales, where I hadn't been too
successful, but in this context, I surely can walk. It's easy
for me because I always loved to walk.
I recall joining my father - I am told from the tender age of
two — on our weekly fifteen-minute stroll to
shul. It was the highlight of my week; I loved the
special time with my father and probably just getting out!
Although as a young child I was in the playroom, I did learn
to daven and go to shul for my own sake, and
just kept on going. Some Friday nights my mother would look
outside and announce, "It's raining. You won't be able to go
to shul tomorrow." Through my tears I would beg,
"Can't we wait and see what the weather will be like
tomorrow? And if I can't go, can't you wait until tomorrow to
tell me?"
When I got older, I was always ready to walk over to a
friend's house. At one time, we lived in a rambling suburb
with no one my age close by. Never mind, I enjoyed walking to
friends a mile away, acquiring a wonderful habit.
As I got older, I began to notice that my contemporaries did
not seem to agree with my estimation of 'walking distance.'
I'd say goodbye, and name a destination, and the response
would invariably be, '"Where is your car?" Or "When is the
bus coming?" "What do you mean?" I would ask, initially in
confusion. "Why can't I just walk?"
During my seminary year in Eretz Yisroel, I enjoyed walking
even more. With whatever free time I had, I disdained buses,
and loved every four cubits, every step I was privileged to
take in Yerushalayim. I was able to truly take in all the
sights and sounds, and appreciate the very special
atmosphere.
Afterwards, as I awaited each birth, I would dream about
taking a walk with my new baby, all snuggly in a stroller. If
my baby was cranky, if I wanted to push off a feeding, if I
wanted to get some fresh air, the stroller was near the door.
In a matter of minutes, I was out, enjoying a guilt- free
break as I gave myself and my baby fresh air and peace. As my
family grew, there were more reasons to walk, as I had very
interesting, as well as interested companions.
When my children began school, we were very fortunate to be
within 'walking distance.' I had the pleasure of escorting
them many mornings, for many years. Although it wasn't always
possible, I walked with them whenever I could, and my walks
became more enjoyable than ever. This was the time to talk to
my children, hear about their classes, tell them stories,
even teach and memorize times tables.
As I grew still older, I discovered more walking benefits.
Turns out it is the perfect exercise, especially if you push
a stroller! My doctor informed me that my half an hour of
walking with my baby in the buggy was all the workout I
needed!
At the same time, as some of my babies were getting pretty
big, they did what most children do enjoy their friends,
reading and other activities that didn't necessarily include
me; it was just not their highest priority to spend their
time telling their Mom about their day. Enter evening walks.
That has appeal!
The other day I asked my son to run an errand and take
something to a friend a few blocks away. He begged off
— he was tired, it was late, well, really. I told him
to forget it; I'd just go myself. He really surprised me with
his response. "Can I go with you? Please?" We had a very
enjoyable walk (and talk).
With all my walking, a new opportunity opened up to me. A
pick-up and delivery service! I decided to let people know
that we have books and magazines to loan out, with delivery
and pick-up service available. Truthfully, I haven't gotten
too many customers yet, but I am sure I put a smile on a few
faces! And as I speak to different people and something comes
up, I offer to come by and 'gopher' for them. There is little
I enjoy more than multi-task. If I can take an exercise walk,
spend time with one of my children, AND pick up/deliver
something, my happiness is complete.
It doesn't have to be a long walk — but be prepared, it
could easily turn into one. And you'll be pleasantly
surprised at how the conversation can flow, without the
distractions and interruptions in the house, especially in
the dark of night. Even my husband and I enjoy this private
time together, just strolling up and down and all around.
Nowhere turns out to be the perfect place to go to! You may
even return with lungs recharged and more energy for whatever
task awaits you.
So go ahead, try to walk next time you have a local errand,
or just want to spend time with someone special and make
extra sure you leave your cell phone at home!
