Day 423

Yesterday, Doug, Anne Grete and I started out on what is to be a three day Walk for Peace in Marin County. The day was incredible – sunny but not hot and just enough of a breeze to keep us comfortable. As we began our planned 4+ mile route, we entered a trail that was rather steep and difficult for me to climb. To their credit, my amazing friends kept my pace (very slow and peppered with many stops) all the way to the top of the Fox Hill Trail, overlooking the ocean above Muir Beach.

As we prepared ourselves to traverse down the trail, Doug said his goodbyes, and Anne Garett and I were off. Going down the trail to the beach was also challenging for me.

What is important about sharing this with you is that there was a time when I would have forced myself to complete the three day Walk just as it was planned, particularly because I had posted the route ahead of time. However, I found myself totally open to changing the route, inviting greater ease for myself. This openness brought me a sense of Peace for knowing my own limitations, and in asking for what I need.

After a restful night in Muir Beach, Anne Grete and I decided to Walk to Muir Woods to see the redwood groves there. I didn’t really know the history of the Park, and was quite touched by the fact that the park was actually dedicated during a United Nations gathering on May 19, 1945. That the park would be referred to as a ‘temple of Peace’ and that this Peace Walker was able to enjoy the park on the eve of it’s 72nd anniversary, seemed somehow synchronistic.

As we Walked and greeted people, I found myself humbled by the regal majesty of the redwood groves. I felt a reverence for the stories the trees might tell, and wondered about all of people who have been through the park since its dedication all those years ago.

After we completed our journey through the park, we decided to see if we could get someone to give us a ride to our destination for the evening (Stinson Beach). After several attempts, we got a ride with a delightful German woman and her sister in law. We had a great conversation on the drive, and they dropped us off and went on their way.

We Walked, talked, laughed and even cried today. And I, for one, feel as if the Peace I so hope for in the world was bestowed upon me within my experience of the park.

Tonight, I am grateful for the fluidity and graceful way our plans have changed. I feel fortunate to know that in times of change, great or small, the surprises that might be waiting just around the corner could just be the gifts of a lifetime.