walking just a tad slower

I’ve only a minute as late night games and late night snacks are awaiting. But, in that moment, I’ve got an observation — about me — and about my tendency to move too fast. Missing the moments in between point a and point b.

Example. We rent out several cabins at our resort and numerous times throughout the day we wander back and forth — bringing food, sunscreen, kids, towels, water, books, bikes and more. Early this morning I took Samuel outside and started the walk down to Grandma and Grandpa’s cabin.

I normally walk fast. I want to get there.

Samuel, however, does not walk fast.

In fact, he meandered. Up the hill. And looking at the dirt. Down the road to pick up some rocks. Across to look at the fish house — not even minding the smell — and back to the flowers that he just passed.

At first I kept telling him to keep walking — let’s get to Grandmas. Then halfway along {after trying to coax Samuel down the little hill} I realized maybe I should just slow down. And meander the road with Samuel.  So I did. And even though the walk took me more than twice the normal time it has become a walk that I will remember as one where I found joy in watching Samuel explore the world — the road — and share that excitement with me.

All because I decided to slow down.

It makes me wonder how many more moments of beauty and exploration that I miss as I’m racing through life.  Vacations are good. They force me to slow down and to see the world through the eyes of my almost two year old. And really — there is so much to see. So fishing tonight I sat on the boat and stared at the sunset trying to soak in every setting ray.

Off to take the walk to Grandma’s cabin now. And I think tonight I’ll walk just a tad bit slower.