Metaphors While Walking in the Rain

I delayed walking today because it was very rainy and windy. Finally, I decided it was never going to let up, so I took a walk anyway. It’s not always safe to go out walking in the wind around here because we have a lot of trees that throw down some of their branches in the wind. Every time I head a crack, I jumped a bit before continuing on my way.

I was reminded of a story read to me a very long time ago when I was still in grade school. I can’t even remember the name of the story It was about a contest between the sun and the wind. They were trying to see who could get the hat off of a man who was walking outside. Of course the wind blew and blew, but the man just held onto his tighter and tighter. When the sun took his turn the man rejoiced in the sunshine and took off his hat. Of course, the story wasn’t literally about the weather, but the weather did remind me of the story.

I don’t particularly like walking on treadmills. It seems that if I’m going to use all that energy, I might as well be doing something enjoyable. I did get wet outside, but I enjoyed the fresh air. Even though they were tucked under their various covers, I could see the dogs, llamas, sheep and horses along the way. I could see how the pond and the creek have changed. The world around me changed as I took each step.

Also, I need that exercise. I need to exercise to stay healthy. Staying healthy doesn’t just mean taking care of my physical body. Walking outside for me gives me a mental health boost. Even though it’s rainy outside, that little bit of light that shines through comes through is a great booster. Even just a tiny bit of sun makes me feel good.

Now that the weather is changing, I know that I won’t be walking nearly as often as I did. I will be heading off to the swimming pool a few mornings a week. When the weather is reasonable, maybe a little wet, but not too windy, I’ll walk.

Nothing should deter me from getting the exercise I need. The man’s hat in that story was not nearly important as his determination to do what was necessary to keep on going. If I’m willing to get wet to go swimming, why shouldn’t I be willing to get wet to go walking.