My Two Selves Went Walking

My two selves went walking through the woods of Glade Mountain. 

The first Me took my iPhone, complete with the RunKeeper app to track my progress. My stride was purposeful and measured. My goal: to walk the 1.9 mile loop of descents and inclines at a brisk enough pace to strengthen muscles, burn calories, and build bone mass. My eyes were on the gravel road in front of me with an occasional glance at the scenery. It was an intentional hike. 

By the end of 35 minutes, I had walked 1.88 miles and burned 224 calories. My muscles were tingling, and I was breathing hard. Satisfied, I flopped into one of the rocking chairs on the porch. Winston flopped beside me, sides heaving, tongue lolling in a happy doggy grin. 

Later, the other Me took a walk. I took my iPhone, but this time the app was set on Instagram. My stride was easy and relaxed. My goal: to walk the 1.9 mile loop and drink in the beauty of God’s creative genius. It was an intentional hike. 



This is what I saw: 

By the end of 45 minutes, I had walked 1.88 miles and taken 35 pictures. My face was smiling, and my spirit was at rest. Satisfied, I flopped into one of the rocking chairs on the porch. Winston flopped beside me, eyes bright, tongue lolling in a happy doggy grin. 

Both selves accomplished much that day. Neither Me was better than the other. Both were intentional and purposeful. My two walks demonstrate the balance of how we should live our lives. 

There are times when we must hunker down and get the job done. There are other times when the assignment is less tangible and harder to measure. Each day has room for energetic progress and quiet reflection. Our souls and lives need them both. Good days are a lovely blend. 

Most of us lean hard in one direction or the other. Task-oriented Mes enjoy checking off lists and logging progress, but sometimes neglect relationships. Relational Mes delight in savoring the interpersonal, but sometimes neglect tasks. To lean too heavily in one direction or the other is to miss the fullness God intends for us. A balanced life is a beautiful blend of both. 

What about you? Which Me tends to dominate? What can you do today to walk in balance? Leave a comment below and join the conversation. 
 
I'm SO EXCITED to be presenting a Christian Devotion Writing Workshop on Saturday, Aug. 11 at Steele Creek Church of Charlotte, N.C., sponsored by Debbie Somjak's Unfolded Hearts Ministry. Here's the scoop:

Do you have a desire to write for God, but don't know how to begin? If so, we invite you to be a part of this empowering hands-on workshop where you'll learn a step-by-step process for writing a devotion with author and speaker, Lori Hatcher.
Class space is limited. Your spot is reserved once payment is received.Please visit UHM webpage for further details and registration info.
**Registration Required, space is limited: CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO.  Cost $25

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