Ann’s 21 Day Challenge
Meditational Walking
Day #1 – 24 minutes, 2700 steps
I had planned on starting my 21 day challenge the first of the month, but because of a bruised foot (from walking in sandals on gravel), I started August 9th. I’ve been wanting to get back into my routine of walking every day, and also of a daily devotional, so I decided to combine both into one. Up at 5:10 a.m. (woke up the entire household when I accidentally stepped on my dog’s tail), read the daily scripture and set off walking the neighborhood. The scripture was from Matthew, and the Great Commission – where Jesus challenges his disciples to go out and make disciples of all men. I don’t think I’m quite ready for that lofty of a charge, but I did decide on my walk that I can strive to make those with whom I associate the best they can be.
Day #3 – 20 minutes, 2250 steps
My knees were bothering me a little today so I stopped a few minutes early. Today’s devotional was about confidence – having it in yourself and instilling it in others. Having a new position means having others tell you how to do your job at times. There have been a few times recently where I’ve perhaps second-guessed myself as I’ve not been confident enough to make my own decision. I found myself singing “I Have Confidence” from Sound of Music as I walked! I know I can do this. I also prayed a lot for my daughter – I’m letting her drive herself and 3 friends to St. Louis to go to Six Flags today. I have to let her go sometime, don’t I? I’m going to write her a note letting her know that I trust her and am confident she’ll make the right choices. And I’m going to be praying like mad all day long J
Day #7- 25 minutes, 2900 steps
I didn’t get up early to walk over the weekend (I did still walk and hit 10,000 steps each day), but it was still easy to get up this morning. And finally a cool day where I didn’t sweat to death while walking! My glasses stayed on my nose and my bra wasn’t soaked J. This week’s scripture is from Micah – he asks God what is required of him, and God’s response is that he do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God. The question for today is “What do I require in life”? (Although, when I sent this through my iphone, my auto correct stated “What do I tequila in life?” Perhaps that’s subliminal?)
I think I’ve decided I can boil it down to one thing: Happiness. If my family is safe, healthy and happy, then I’m happy. Walking humbly with God makes me happy. Peace on earth would make me happy. Loving my job makes me happy. Having good friends makes me happy. So yeah – that’s what I require.
How about you?
Day 21
We took our son Daniel to college yesterday, so I spent the morning walk praying for him. Well, okay, also for me to have the strength to let him go and not miss him so much (I do miss his hugs). I am so excited for him and his future, and I can’t wait to see who he becomes. I know this may sound silly, but I’ve always kind of felt that God has special plans for him. I don’t think Daniel has truly discovered his God-given gifts, but I have faith that he will. I’m going to share with him the quote that starts my each and every day: “Today may there be peace within. May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith in yourself and others. May you use the gifts that you have received and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content with yourself just the way you are. Let this knowledge settle into your bones and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us”.
So, my 21 day challenge is officially over!! I’ve gone back through and read my posts, and enjoyed my journey all over again. I think what this challenge has done for me is to remind me that it’s important to “walk humbly with God” (see Micah scripture, Day 7), not just for 21 days, but for each and every day of my life. Amen.