Take a walk, make a connection

I have a target of walking 6,000 steps per day.

For some, that is not a lot. Many exercise enthusiasts have far higher goals than I do. But having lived a far too sedentary lifestyle in recent years, 6,000 steps is a good initial goal.

I recently purchased a fitbit, which helps to keep track of my goal, assesses my heart rate and gauges my sleep patterns, among other cool functions. It seems like quite a useful tool.

My smartphone was able to keep track of my steps, but my main reason for picking up the fitbit was for the heart rate function. Having a heart valve defect, I wanted to be able to observe my rate during a variety of activities. So far, it tells me that I am above average — whatever that means.

Also, the fitbit “reminds” me to get up and take a walk every hour or so, if I have been inactive. In a way, it is like having an accountability partner — but one that I don’t have to listen to (or recharge) if I choose not to. But so far, I appreciate the friendly reminders.

By taking the walks necessary to meet my goal, I am beginning to feel better, am seeing signs of health benefits and am enjoying the opportunities that come from being out on the street.

One day, while out taking a walk, I came upon a woman and two young children. From a distance, it appeared that she was carrying something rather heavy. As I got closer, this was proven true, as she laid a box down and began wringing her fingers. One of the children with her had a backpack on — weighed down with something that sounded like rice or KD. The other child was young and was simply strolling along.

As I came up to them, I asked if I might be able to help. Considering the circumstances, I thought it might seem strange to ask that question. She indicated that she still had a long way to go, and that I didn’t need to help. I said that I didn’t mind — and she became open for me to carry the box.

It appeared they had been at the food bank, though I don’t know that. It is just that the box was filled with fresh food and groceries. I came to learn that the girl was in fact carrying food in her backpack as well.

As I picked up the box, I soon realized that it was indeed heavy. However, at least she didn’t need to carry it any further. Several blocks later, we arrived at her apartment and the food was delivered. The best part, for me, was that along the way, by asking some questions, I learned a little about her and the children – a new connection. She said “thank you,” and off I went.

On another walk, a guy on a skateboard went by me at an intersection. I didn’t pay much attention. However, a few steps later, I noticed that he had wiped out on the street. As I got nearer, I could see that he had cut himself in several places.

Long story short, I asked if he was ok, and we started walking together.

In the process of the fall, he had dropped his coffee, losing it. As we went by a coffee shop, I asked if I could replace it. “No need,” he said. But asking again, he agreed. Another connection!

The fitbit has helped me get moving. God’s love causes me to stop.

Let’s all be ‘walkers’ and see what doors God may open up.