The essence of nonviolence, the lack of any impulse to harm, lies in the peace passing understanding at the heart of all of us and of every religious tradition. From that place ensues trust in the unfolding process of life, at the same time as action to the greater good. It is the source of action because compassion naturally arises from wisdom and wisdom is the nature of that place. Compassion is being moved, literally, to act for the greater good.
Walking is a profound tool of healing. When spirits droop and footsteps falter, walking awakens the
healing powers of the human spirit, literally, with chemicals that change the way you feel...Whether the
wound is physical, emotional, professional, or spiritual, a walk can ease the grip of hard times, delivering an
antidote to despair. But each step requires an act of faith...When I catch my
thoughts plowing through fears and doubts or unanswered questions as I walk, I've
developed the habit of responding politely but firmly… Thank you, but not now.
Right now, I am here and I am walking. Then I return to awareness of my breath or
my footsteps. It's a practice that allows me to acknowledge my lively thought
processes and then choose to redirect my focus.
~ from HEALING WALKS FOR HARD TIMES by Carolyn Scott Kortge