The Unexpected Walk Of Life

It’s Monday Funday, just a small blip in the grand scheme of things, in this vast world…but let’s not forget that the big picture, this big world, is made up of these very blips.

The other day, as I stepped out for my morning walk—a ritual I cherish, especially on the days of a BIG talks, big meetings, those moments that get the knees shaking, the butterflies flying—I had an encounter that left me reflecting deeply.?

No sooner had I walked out of my gate than a lady came towards me, shouting, “It’s a 70’s man!” Now, this got me thinking—was she referring to the swag in my walk? Maybe I was unknowingly rocking some tie-dye (was that 70's fashion)? As she got closer, I realised she was pointing out the smiley face on my black beanie.?

What I expected to be a passing comment turned into an unexpected walk together. This lady, who I soon noticed was wearing a home-detention anklet, changed the direction of her walk to join me. As we strolled, I noticed her scent wasn’t a perfume?from the high streets of Milan; it had more of a bourbon and coke undertone.

Here we were, me with my Cerebral Palsy, and her with her bourbon haze—a sight to behold, I’m sure LOL. But as we walked, my thoughts shifted from “How can I inspire this lady?” to “Maybe the best thing I can do is just walk with her.” I realised that sometimes, the most powerful thing we can do is simply be present, comfortable with the uncomfortable, and open to whatever lessons might unfold.

At one point, I asked her what she had learned from being on the “wrong side” of the law. The silence that followed made me wonder if I had overstepped, but then she quietly replied, “Not to judge other people.” That response hit home.?

Every day, we live parallel to people we might be quick to judge. But what if, instead, we chose to gain perspective? Sure, it might be uncomfortable, but the reward can be?huge: gratitude, connection, perspective, more…more…more…little blips that make the picture of life.

I encourage us all this week, step out of our comfort zone. Engage with someone we might usually pass by, listen to their story, and see how it changes ours. The rewards might just surprise us. Wishing you a fantastic week.

Cam