By Karen O’Connor:
According to walkinginfo.org “people do not think to walk in the neighborhood.” But one can overcome that mindset with a little creativity, and in doing so find God on a neighborhood walk. How can one accomplish this?
By building a stronger sense of community, and finding that God is right there among your neighbors and friends as you get acquainted with one another.
“One way to bring neighbors together and expose residents to the experience of walking in their neighborhood is to organize a neighborhood walk.”
Some examples, according to the website, include:
- A walk to visit a new park or pathway
- A walk to an event (neighborhood fair, local coffee shop)
- A nighttime holiday walk to view decorations
- A fitness walk or walking just for the sake of walking
- Organized walks for seniors or moms or youth
In Santa Cruz County where I live, people walk while at the same time learning about their city and its history through an organized interest group called Exploring Santa Cruz County. The walks include visits to historic homes, old churches and missions. They also visit museums with commentary on the founders and their contributions to the city.
In San Diego, California Walkabouts, International is a social walking group. It promotes health and exercise with neighborhood walks.
My husband and I decided to add a new dimension to our daily walks. We pray for our family and ourselves and our world. Over the years we’ve received a two-fold benefit: exercise for our bodies and souls.
Whatever strategy or group you choose, it’s definitely possible to find God on a neighborhood walk when you simply stay on the move and pay attention.
For the top five benefits of walking with friends and neighbors take a look at this YouTube video.
©Karen O’Connor. Karen is an author, writing mentor, and frequent contributor to the Finding God Daily blog. Visit Karen on the web at www.karenoconnor.com, on Facebook, or on Twitter as @karenoconnor.
