I recently had to put my dog, my pet of nearly 13 years, to sleep after 10 months of bladder cancer treatments. Knowing that I wanted some time to grieve, I planned a getaway vacation right afterwards. I felt comforted by my vet’s comment that many people plan trips after they lose their beloved pets.
While I was away and had a change of scenery, I took long morning walks every day. I noticed that my walking speed slowed from its usual pace. At first I tried to fight it, but it was no use. My grief shifted me into slow motion. Frustrated by my lack of a good workout, I later grew to appreciate the stroll, as it allowed me to notice the new flora I saw. I prayed and asked God to help me stop fighting the “need for speed” and look for ways to discover joy.
Jeremy Rifkin said:
Could there be a correlation between being in a hurry and experiencing the joy that comes from noticing things around you?
In my time of sorrow, my slow motion seemed to reveal the dilemma we all face daily. Will we take on too many things, or be too concerned with less significant things, and miss the most important blessings?
I discovered joy in taking a stroll vs. a “power walk.” I noticed children laughing, flowers, birds, and butterflies. Beauty surrounded me. I felt joy in my heart.
He has sent me to tell those who mourn that the time of the Lord’s favor has come, and with it, the day of God’s anger against their enemies. To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. …
– Isaiah 61:2-3, NLT
Anne Schneider
Northeast Field Director
September 12, 2016