OUT FOR A STROLL
The silver-haired gentleman looked like a fish out of water the moment I spotted him. I was already in the momentum of my busy Saturday in order to try to get everything on my ridiculous to do list accomplished before nightfall. It was still early when I jumped into my truck and I caught him out of the corner of my eye via my garage window.
I paused momentarily eyeing the unaware elderly man as the sun was just peaking over the edge of the earth as if watching with me, it sprinkled it’s gentle rays on the old guy as if the street in front of my house was his stage. He moved methodically with intention and purpose in each slow and deliberate stride.
I quickly deduced that he didn’t live on my street and that he must be one of my neighbor’s dad. “There’s something different about him,” I thought to myself as I glanced at him, fired up my truck, fastened the seatbelt, and hit the garage door opener, hoping he might not hear it groan and disturb him while I studied the thin man that was sporting jeans and a sweater.
I backed out still unseen and unheard as I pulled out and up slowly and respectfully toward him to let him clear my path. He finally spotted me not twenty feet away from him almost stopped and he waved grandly as his face seemed to light up with delight. I lifted my hand just off the steering wheel and nodded and smiled as he strode to the other side of the street.
I continued to study the graceful gentleman in my rearview as I drove slowly away, which is also a rarity for me. I watched the distinguished looking man look about thoughtfully at everything in his line of sight. Just before I turned the corner out of our short cul-de-sac I peered back one more time and finally put my finger on it.
It was his body language as he walked. People that go on walks around my neck of the woods walk with a different purpose. The walks taken around these parts by the folks who live around here are for exercise. This man wasn’t out for a walk, he was out for a stroll.
The art of strolling and the sure sign of being on a stroll I’d seen so little of in the past two or three decades that I didn’t recognize it. It was how the old fellow held his hands; clasped gracefully behind his back as he strolled. His generation knew how to walk and they knew how to stroll… and they knew the difference and purpose of each… a trait that doesn’t seem to have been passed on to a generation too busy to be bothered with nonsense like pondering the beginning of a new day.
I hit the gym hard and fast, took care of business, cleared my computer post haste, and hit my office and was buried in blueprints all day. Come late afternoon I raced to the shower and grabbed a protein bar to arrive five minutes late for church… I thought about the strolling senior the next day as I headed off to my office to pen this post…
I folded my arms behind my back and slowed my pace to a stroll.
We race through this life striving for the grand things, never realizing as we pass an old man with his hands folded gently behind his back that he is reaping the true treasures of wisdom…
Thursday, January 9, 2014 @ 6:56 am
A stroll can be nice, but studies show that strolls do very little if anything for our physical health where a brisk walk does much. I heard that on NPR a couple of weeks ago. If one had the time, perhaps one could rotate strolls and brisk walks every other day.
Thursday, January 9, 2014 @ 2:00 pm
That’s what everybody does around here; exercise walks, but I haven’t seen anybody in decades just stroll. The old guy was inspecting every flower with the light of a new day. Strolling is contemplation time. I’m gonna have to try it more… besides, my knees hurt from all the exercise! Thanks, Dan.
Thursday, January 9, 2014 @ 10:35 am
The week between Christmas and New Year my family took life at a leisurely pace. It was nice and I have to admit, I’m having trouble getting back into the swing of my fast paced normal life. I long to stroll again!
Thursday, January 9, 2014 @ 2:01 pm
I never thought about it, but I guess strolling could be habit forming… Maybe I should rethink this whole thing?! Thanks, TC. And pick up the pace!
Thursday, January 9, 2014 @ 1:21 pm
Hi Floyd,
I don’t think I have seen anybody stroll except in the movies. I’m sure a stroll must be very relaxing causing the stress level to decrease and give the stroller time to look at Father’s hand print in the world around him.
Blessings
Thursday, January 9, 2014 @ 2:06 pm
Yes. It has a distinct look, one that I struggled to recognize. It is always the most simple of things in life that we take for granted, overlook, and miss out on along the way. I gotta pay attention to the little things… God will take care of the big ones…
Thursday, January 9, 2014 @ 2:02 pm
Floyd, come to Ukraine in the summer and I can take you outside where you will literally find hundreds of mothers, fathers, grandparents, children and young couples strolling! I think it’s sad that we live in a time and place where so few have forgotten the art of walking for enjoyment and peace and fellowship rather than just speed walking with life on overdrive!
Thursday, January 9, 2014 @ 2:10 pm
You summed that up with much wisdom, Caleb. The enemy has blinded us and trapped us in the pursuit of our flesh, even when done for honorable intentions, it can overtake us when we lose a proper heavenly perspective. May we stop and smell the roses this year. Thanks, Caleb.
Thursday, January 9, 2014 @ 2:26 pm
We just race through life…period. I can’t even begin to come close to when I last strolled or rode my bike just for the fun of it. I’m on a mission and I intend on keeping it. Wisdom, if I read Proverbs right, does not come from living life at breakneck speed. It comes from gathering. Good post Floyd. You made me long for slower days.
Thursday, January 9, 2014 @ 5:26 pm
You and me both, Bill. I recall in days gone by that while people didn’t have as nice of things as they do now, they had community… The church preaches community as fellowship and we are failing miserably… I’m one of the worst offenders. I hope talking about it and pondering it might actually help. Remember how fun it was just to ride for the fell of the breeze on your face? We’re missing the boat and the smell of the roses, brother.
Thursday, January 9, 2014 @ 2:52 pm
I’m a fan of walking. I don’t do it often anymore, but there’s something about putting on headphones, a good sermon to listen to, and a nice path to walk.
Thursday, January 9, 2014 @ 5:28 pm
Yep. How much wisdom have you gained in the process? I’ll bet a whole lot more than talking on a cell phone trying to do more business… Thanks for the example, Loren. I gotta work on that.
Thursday, January 9, 2014 @ 3:07 pm
Guilty here, too, Floyd. Not enough strolling in my life–not enough contemplating, not enough soaking up the presence of God all around me. Thanks for posting this. I needed to read it.
Thursday, January 9, 2014 @ 5:29 pm
Thanks to you as well, Pam. We need to encourage one another to live the life that Proverbs points out as Bill so eloquently reminded us. I guess you know how those preachers are!!!
Thursday, January 9, 2014 @ 4:11 pm
I love to stroll especially since I got a little age on me and cannot move too fast. I never walk with Ace anymore for just that reason, it is fast. course he is losing weight and I am not. It’s amazing how encouraging strolling can be for the mind has to slow down, they eyes notice things you never noticed before and I do believe God voice can be heard a little better without earphones on and a slower pace. I think Adam and Eve strolled in the garden with God instead of walked for exercise. I love to say hello to people when I pass them and if I am walking slow they will usually comment in some way and I stop, we have a conversation that if God allows will turn to Him. If I have those headphone on and I do sometimes I just nod and keep walking. Good observation brother…I would bet your wife would love a stroll around the block with you because strolling leaves you with enough breathe to talk.
Thursday, January 9, 2014 @ 5:33 pm
That’s the proper perspective, Betty. Using every opportunity to share the Truth of this life when ever one is made available, which is never by chance. I know we’re not supposed to worship it, but I do believe that it shows respect when we take in His creation and remember that it declares His majesty. Think I’ll take a stroll with my wife… Lord knows I couldn’t keep up with her if it were an exercise! Thanks for sharing that special wisdom you possess, sister.
Thursday, January 9, 2014 @ 5:53 pm
My perception of this gentleman, as I see it in my head, would be that of suspicion. If I saw this man walking at a stroll, I would think him a pervert or a child molester or a robber familiarizing himself of the goings on in a neighborhood. Strolling is a lost art form, so foreign to our busy lives of rushing around from this place to that place.
Friday, January 10, 2014 @ 9:56 am
Exactly! The act of strolling has become so removed from our society that our first response is one of suspicion! It was mine as well! Watching the man study flowers in the early morning light shed a new light on my day… Hopefully my year! Thanks, Thomas.
Thursday, January 9, 2014 @ 7:57 pm
The gentleman was enjoying the day and taking everything in. Tonight Robert and I were returning from a late Dr visit and watched the lovely colors in the sun-set. We weren’t strolling, but we did find God’s wonders a delight to envision.
Friday, January 10, 2014 @ 9:58 am
That’s the right attitude, Hazel. Taking the time to appreciate our Father’s creation brings Him honor. We don’t worship His creation, but we should certainly take the time to acknowledge all that He’s made. Isn’t it fascinating that of all the days, God has never made the exact same sunset twice? Mind boggling… Thanks, Hazel!
Thursday, January 9, 2014 @ 9:38 pm
I haven’t seen anyone strolling in years, I think since I was a kid. That really brings things into perspective when you look and realize that we are going so fast. I know he was not doing that for exercise, he was doing it because he wanted to enjoy his environment.
Friday, January 10, 2014 @ 10:00 am
Precisely, Lincoln! I can’t remember what movie it was, but there is a quote that just popped into my head, “We’ve gone and got ourselves into such a damn hurry!” May we all become a little more wise with the time we are granted. I needed this reminder. Thanks, Lincoln.
Thursday, January 9, 2014 @ 9:38 pm
There are so many things I admire about you, Floyd, and one is your keen observation, and how you can take some small incident, that no one else would notice, and weave it into a wonderful tale with wisdom to impart. It amazes me, really. I love this idea of slowing down and strolling to enjoy life. I take powerwalks mostly, and that is good too for the body and spirit. Really revs things up. And yet, how wonderful simly to get out into fresh air and sunshine and take one’s time. I thnk you notice more when you stroll and it’s almost a form of meditation. I’m glad you were able to do that, yourself! And funny: Mike and I are always out walking, and we rarely meet a soul–powerwalking or strolling or even running. Too bad people don’t get out and walk and meet their neighbors. We’d like to, but they are all inside! If we lived closer to you and Diane, we’d invite you for a stroll!
Happy New Year!
Lynn
Friday, January 10, 2014 @ 10:07 am
It’s startling to realize that some of the ways of our childhood were more balanced than we are now! I recall standing beside the lake, sorting through the rocks to pick out the perfect one, skipping stones across the smooth surface, and always be in awe of the fact that the stones would bounce off the surface of the water… We grow up and miss the magic in each day.
Maybe the next time we get to St. Louis we can all go for a stroll! I’ll leave the power walking up to you and Diane! Thanks for sharing, Lynn. You always push me deeper into thought, and thanks for your always encouraging heart and words, sister.
Friday, January 10, 2014 @ 10:28 am
Thanks Floyd! Certainly, you call us about that walk if you are in St. L! Diane and I will leave you and Mike in the dust! Ha!
Saturday, January 11, 2014 @ 8:29 am
In the dust of the coffee shop!
Saturday, January 11, 2014 @ 1:30 pm
Well no, sorry. Gotta tell you: We’re tea drinkers around here. In fact, just got back from seeing an old flick (Robin Hood w/ Errol Flynn and Olivia DeHaviland at a neighborhood theatre, and then we had tea at the London Tea Room). But I guess if you asked nicely, maybe they’d serve you coffee! Oh and dust? I often talk about my dustedness before the Lord and am so glad that He is mindful that I *am* but DUST!
Love your dialogue, Floyd!
Lynn
Saturday, January 11, 2014 @ 4:03 pm
That’s okay, I’m good fa a spaw-uh-tay… (you forced me to break out my English accent!) Good thoughts of the dust… Ashes to ashes. Amazing what our Father can do with dirt…
I have too enjoy the bloody dialogue!
Thursday, January 9, 2014 @ 11:02 pm
I had to ask myself the question, “Why or when would I ever go out for a stroll?” Honestly, I wouldn’t! It seems pointless for a stroll. I get exercise and I run from here and there and if I want to stop and relax I certainly don’t go for a stroll. But I think I am missing something, so I think I will try it. I’m on vacation at the beach and a stroll down the beach sounds absolutely amazing for tomorrow’s agenda. I’ll let you know how it goes!
Friday, January 10, 2014 @ 10:09 am
That is so cool! You gotta stroll on the beach! Look for the perfect stone and skip it across the top of the water! If it’s not to cold go barefooted too! We might just revive the lost art of strolling yet! Enjoy your time and our Father’s creation, Rachael.
Friday, January 10, 2014 @ 12:46 am
We have become a society that has forgotten how to stroll. 🙁
Friday, January 10, 2014 @ 10:10 am
It’s true! We really have, it’s turned into a foot race if we have to be without vehicle underneath us!
Friday, January 10, 2014 @ 7:40 am
Man, I need this reminder so often (as you know reading my post about pushing too hard). You’re so right. We rush and rush, busier and busier. God designed us to rest too. He designed us for strolls, but He also designed us with the freedom to choose. Sad to say, too often I have chosen to keep running when I needed to slow down. Thank God for another day! I can trust Him with the details and the fulfillment. Good stuff, Floyd. Thank you.
Friday, January 10, 2014 @ 10:12 am
You’re not alone, Jason. We need to remind ourselves of the valuable things in life. We rush past miraculous and beautiful things daily, pushing for things that can’t begin to bring peace to our soul. May this be the year we find more balance and enjoy the best gifts that we tend to overlook. Thanks, Jason.
Friday, January 10, 2014 @ 8:53 am
I was one of those who wondered what the man was up to. 😉 the suspense writer in me sometimes has to be turned off. Hey, that’s kinda the point of strolling! To slow and calm your mind and focus on just being for awhile!
Friday, January 10, 2014 @ 10:15 am
Isn’t it peculiar that in our society our first response now is one of suspicion? It was mine as well! I studied him with skepticism… then I learned from him. It might be a bit to cold for a stroll in your neck of the woods, Voni. You get a pass today!
Saturday, January 11, 2014 @ 2:08 am
Dear Floyd
Oh, we don’t really understand how this world races everyday to get all its to-do lists done until we stand at the sidelines as a spectator. When even a stroll becomes a luxury you cannot afford, you really stop and wonder why the world is not slowing down a bit now that you are not contributing to the rat race anymore. I realized that once I stepped of that wheel that goes around and around going nowhere very fast, the wheel can still go around spinning in my mind for quite a while, actually for ever. We all need to do what we do, whether we work,play, write, gym, exercise or whatever we do, in Jesus! After all it is in Him that we live and move and breathe and have our being. When our hearts are resting in Him, will will have peace beyond comprehension and actually stroll through life like this gentleman regardless of our outer circumstances.I have come to realize that the rat race starts in our hearts.
Blessings XX
Mia
Saturday, January 11, 2014 @ 8:32 am
How I treasure your perspective and wisdom, Mia. I hadn’t thought of it, but the rat race does most certainly start in our heart. And if we’re doing what it is we’re called to do by our Father that peace and joy that come from a simple stroll will be our gift. Great words! I’m glad you’re feeling well enough to add your gifts of words here, sister! Thank you!
Sunday, January 12, 2014 @ 3:00 pm
I’m guilty….and so is Randy. We stroll – on purpose. It doesn’t seem to matter where we are, we study everything around us, discuss/comment on it and often take pictures as we go. Some of our strolls have ended up being over a mile or so. Last week when we were out, we saw another phenom. A bunch of people at a local park, playing horseshoes in the horseshoe pit. They yelled at us to come join them! We would have too, if Randy didn’t have to go for his MRI. Good thing you continued to meditate on the gentleman’s behavior. The Holy Spirit used him to reveal something to you!
Sunday, January 12, 2014 @ 5:53 pm
Good for you, Nancy. That is so great that you are one step ahead of us… (a slight pun intended!) Now I just need to do something about what I know… That’s the hard part. Thanks for the tip. Horseshoes huh? I can’t remember the last time I played horseshoes. It’s great to hear from you, sister. I know you’re busy, but you have your priorities right. Thanks for the example.
Monday, January 13, 2014 @ 7:17 am
It was easy to visualize the strolling gentleman in your neighborhood. I often “meander”. Is that the same? Lovely post.
Monday, January 13, 2014 @ 6:54 pm
Yes! I’d say meandering is a better name for it! I need to meander too, sister. Thanks, Mary.
Tuesday, January 14, 2014 @ 11:04 pm
One of my favorite things to do is to take a stroll at the beach with my family. The times when we have no place to go and all the time in the world. Those times are wonderful moments for me. Great post and thoughts!
Wednesday, January 15, 2014 @ 10:53 am
Good for you, Dan. To stop and enjoy the gifts from God that we take for granted to often is a sign of wisdom, brother. I’m working on it, or God is I should say… Thanks, Dan.
Wednesday, January 15, 2014 @ 6:56 am
Very nice post, Floyd. I can’t remember the last time I just took a nice relaxing stroll although I know I have. Being from Chicago originally I am always in a hurry when I walk. I think the only thing that is slowing me down a bit is arthritis in my feet and lower back. I do enjoy when my wife drives, and I can just enjoy the beauty of the Ozarks where we live now. It’s those times that I can really slow down and enjoy God’s beautiful creation.
Wednesday, January 15, 2014 @ 10:54 am
I’m with you, Mike. We’ve been programmed to go far and fast and take no prisoners. Somewhere along the way we missed some of the greatest gifts our Father has for us. It’s all about perspective, brother. I’m slowing down too, Mike. We’re old dogs, but we’re up for some new tricks! Thanks, Mike.
Friday, January 17, 2014 @ 2:30 pm
I’ve been so busy, I haven’t had a chance to really sit down and enjoy your talents. Thank you for always putting a smile on my face and helping me appreciate all we have your very gifted
Friday, January 17, 2014 @ 5:55 pm
Well thanks for taking the time to read and share your thoughts. I appreciate you, my friend.