The Journey Inward

This past weekend I went for a long walk in town. I began the long, but gradual uphill of a street I walk several times a week. With each step, I was seeking clarity, peace and self regulation. Between a break up, my daughter getting badly hurt in a soccer game, and a crisis in my extended family, I had a lot to process.

I passed a house on my route that I’d never fully taken in. It had the most enchanting little garden out front, with painted rocks and frog figurines. I’m a sucker for both quotes and frogs, so I stopped to admire. Here are my takeaways…

Yup. Truth. That’s exactly what last week felt like.

This one hit me hard at first, but I was struck by an overwhelming sense of gratitude for just how many people in my life could sit on that bench beside me, from my children to my siblings to my wonderful friends to my pups. I have no shortage of bench buddies!

I haven’t made time to read recently. Not the kind of dive in and come up for air once the novel’s done kind of reading. No time like the present! I began that very day after my walk…comfy chair, cup of tea, book.

I loved my 1918 home from the minute I stepped inside. It immediately felt like a sanctuary with everything I need and nothing I don’t. But home is also my family, my school, my community. Most of all, home is inside me. I am my own sanctuary. I felt so grounded.

This figurine spoke to me and said, “Just sit. Be still. Be quiet. Be alone. Be thoughtful. Be grateful. Be open. Be listening. Just be.” I was filled with peace and harmony and oneness with the Universe.

This little discovery, this cheerful little garden, added so much to my walk. I determined that I would pay it forward by creating my own little space come springtime. I can’t wait to gather my figures and sayings. Because if I need it, I know someone else does, too!

Photos: Flemington, NJ. 9.14.24 by LA