Glamming it up at the lake – NOT
You won’t see me wearing “buds” in my ears when I’m walking or pretending to run around the lake. I have been assaulted in two countries – mugged in Peru and spit upon by a total stranger in France, I like to see and hear things before they approach me. Gotta be watchful after those kind of experiences, trust me.
Instead I enjoy hearing the ducks quack, the white swan bellow and the squirrels skitter. Dogs patter by and of course the people scuffle or rush past me. That’s all the earthly sounds I need.
I enjoy all those sounds but the thing I enjoy most, ironically, is the quiet. I spend a lot of time talking to God on these walks/jogs. Yesterday I logged over six miles around the lake and all the while, the Lord and I discussed life and my struggles. If I had music blasting in my ears, I’m certain I wouldn’t hear his voice. Instead the peaceful surroundings afford me a chance to reflect. To be still even though I’m walking/running if that makes any sense.
These are the sights and sounds I enjoy as I walk around the lake
Contemplative times around the lake
In the quiet, the Holy Spirit gets my attention. He bestows insight and courage. To move forward, to grieve, to heal, to contemplate, I need the quiet. I’ve asked the Lord why He has me going to a lake to exercise. It’s cold outside, not especially picturesque with the trees becoming barren.
And I believe He is telling me He wants to spend time with me alone. Just Father and daughter time.
Best writing gig in town/cyberspace! http://lisajobaker.com/2012/11/five-minute-friday-quiet/
My Awesome Olive Shoots 
Father/daughter time is so necessary! I completely get it about being still despite the actual physical walking/jogging. Sometimes a monotonous activity gets me “quieter” than any actual physical stillness can. I so enjoyed your take on “Quiet”.
Thank you so much! I didn’t really have great father/daughter time with my earthly dad so this is healing for me in many ways. The walk is strenuous since I’m out of shape but God is working on fixing my physical and emotional heart. Appreciate the encouragement more than you know!
I feel like such a minority, but I love silence.
Silence has really been speaking to me lately. I’m right there w/ya! ❤
Beautiful, Cindy.
Sounds like you get more from your exercise than physical fitness. Keep walking!
So apt! I cherish those moments too. I hear him more and see more when I walk alone. Thanks for stopping by. Stopped by from FMF and to answer you it is the best!
Thank you so much! God is ever present and inclining His ears to hear and His voice to speak truth. Bless you!