The Paths You Take

This post was inspired by a friend who sent me this quote from John Muir: “Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt”.

       For me, when I take that quote literally, I find myself riding my bike off-road. Whether it’s hitting the D&R Canal path or Columbia Trail – both crushed stone paths with stunning views - or taking a single-track path through the woods, as soon as my wheels hit the dirt my mind and body relax. Getting off the pavement and connecting with nature is healing for me even if I am sharing the path with many other cyclists, hikers, and even horses.

       One thing I can’t understand though is people walking or riding with earbuds in and/or glued to their phone’s screen. OK, you’re getting exercise and are outside, but you are not connecting with nature or those around you. Instead, you’ve locked yourself into your own little media bubble and isolated yourself from the world. To those of you who fall into this category I say UNPLUG! Not only will you get to experience what’s around you, but you will be able to hear cyclists and joggers coming up on you – and vehicles too if you are on a local road. That last part is a safety issue. I for one want to be aware of what’s around me, particularly if I am peddling around town.

       Looking at the quote metaphorically means taking a chance, getting out of your comfort zone, breaking your routine. All of these can be scary, but all are necessary for learning and growth. Don’t be afraid to take a different path in life if the one you are on develops too many potholes or starts to get clogged with weeds. Changing direction or taking a detour will help you to re-charge, allow you to move beyond perceived limitations, and may even create new connections and opportunities.

       Taking the road less travelled can mean different things to different people. It may not be the road with less traffic, it may just be the route you have not taken before. For introverts like me, it may be consciously stepping out to connect with others and the world. For extroverts it may be seeking solitude for self-reflection.

      Don’t be afraid to take a different path in life. It’s never too late to change direction, try something new, or even completely re-invent yourself. Doing those things can be scary but you don’t have to go hurtling down that new path. It’s OK to go slowly. The important thing is to take a few steps off the pavement, exhale, take in what’s around you and keep moving forward.

www.RetiredandInspiredat55.com  06-17-2024