I had the pleasure of meeting up with my friend Paula to share a meal and some time catching up with each other. Paula and I met a couple of years ago when I lived in Olympia, and immediately felt a kindred spirit. We each have a very dry sense of humor, and enjoy philosophizing with one another. What was nice about our visit was that we had both created plenty of time and space to be together, which enabled me to catch up on what’s been going on for her, and her to hear about the progress on the Walk for Peace. Paula has a way of being that is quite inspiring, and I am grateful to learn from her each time we meet.
After we each went our own way, Chandler and I decided to take a walk around Capitol Lake in Olympia. The sun was shining, and the temperature was perfect for being outdoors without needing layers of clothing to keep us warm. There were several people out jogging and walking today, which made for a very social experience for Chandler. And, for me. One conversation I had was with a man who was easily a foot and a half taller than me, and had his daughter on his shoulders. The little girl started pointing and giggling as soon as she saw Chandler, and her father and I couldn’t help but giggle too. I offered to pick Chandler up to let the little girl pet her, and she giggled even more when she felt Chandler’s fur on her hand. The man asked me if we were from here, and I explained that we are visiting, telling him as well about the Walk. He asked a few more questions, and he then said that the most Peaceful time he has is “when he’s got his little one on his shoulders and she’s tapping him on his head, asking him to go faster”. As we went in different directions, I could hear the little girl giggling, and my heart felt full.
Last night and tonight, Emily, Anders and I had the opportunity to visit with another friend, Carol. We talked about politics, religion, privelige, community, communication and a host of other (usually taboo) topics. And, in the middle of it all, we found plenty to laugh about. What I noticed as we talked is how much more I want to learn, about so many things. And, I am grateful for the experience of being in conversation with people who are willing to talk about the “hard stuff”.
I am blessed by different depth and breadth of interactions every day along the Walk for Peace. From giggles, to philosophizing to current events, there is a gift in every connection I have with another human being. All I have to do is to open myself to it.