A Special Morning
As I began my 7 am morning walk to collect my daily dose of morning vitamin D, I put in my ear buds and toggled to find another podcast to lose myself into. Should I start a political one? Perhaps a sports podcast? Rogan? Hot Takes? Being Sunday, I opted to continue The Bible in a Year (which has taken me 3 years so far).
As I approached my quarter way mark, and listening to Fr Schmidt talk about King David and the mighty men of valor, I noticed an elderly gentleman with his bucket hat on, walking down his driveway with, what I assume, was his grandson, looking to be about 12 years old. My first thought was, “I’m not too aware of 12 year olds getting up at 7 am to walk”, but that thought was erased immediately as I watched them interact as they walked down the street. What an amazing photo opp that would’ve been with the morning glow, as they were looking at each other while walking and talking. They veered left and I went straight.
I kept thinking about the two of them and wondered if they were still talking and walking, and what were they talking about. What an amazing opportunity for that young boy to learn more about his grandfather, learn tricks about fishing, or when to steal a base, how to catch a football. My thoughts were all over the place. Yet, who has the better opportunity? The grandson or the grandfather? That walk probably meant the world to that grandfather and something he’ll cherish, but can’t help think about how many times over the next few decades that boy will reflect back on that walk and something his grandfather shared with him.
This even gets better… as I made my final turn back into my neighborhood, a good 3.5 miles away from where I first encountered the grandfather and grandson, we passed each other on opposite sides of the street. They were still looking at each other and still talking, yet more animated with hands and arms. How cool is that??
I’m now sitting on my patio drinking my morning Earl Grey tea with a splash of agave, while reflecting back on today’s walk and how good I’m going to feel for the rest of the day. If you’re a grandparent, grab those walks with your grandkids, and if you’re a grandchild, spend time with your grandparents, the stories they can share are invaluable!
Have a blessed day everyone!