I have had some health issues that required a lifestyle change (e.g. sitting at a desk all day long is not good for you!). Consequently, I have started walking in the early morning hours before work. As a nurse, my day days have always started early so that I can be ready to see patients at 7am. I get up between 4am and 5am most days, even now that I am working as a nurse practitioner. I like the quiet of the early morning, and walking when the stars are still out is a very calming experience.
I had a day off last week and slept in a bit, causing my walking routine to be pushed back. I took a different route along a less traveled path and found a little gem waiting for me in the road.
Turtles are wonderful creatures but the amazing thing about them is that they have to come out of their shell in order to propel forward.
It was extraordinarily hot that day and I reached down to pick this little guy up. I gave him a free ride for about a half mile to a pond that I knew he would enjoy. There was some cat tails at the edge of this oasis and lots of bugs to eat. When I picked him up he initially darted into his shell but as I carried him, he relaxed and hung his head out as if to say, “where are we going?”
I had to laugh. Maybe I was taking his back to his starting point! Here I thought I was doing a good deed, but maybe he had other plans!
In any case, he ended up at the pond and I watched him for a few minutes before I resumed my walk. He came out of his shell and started for the water. 💦 He looked happy.
We all need a little help once in awhile to get back on track. We also need to come out of our “shell” in order to move forward in life. You rest in your comfort zone; you don’t live in it. it takes effort and risk to improve in this life.
I would challenge you today, to consider how you are coming out of your “shell” to move your life forward! What effort and risks are you taking to move towards your dreams?
Write them down.
Think about them.
Everyday, do something to move yourself closer to your goals.
Here’s to you. Praying that God’s fingerprints are all over your day.
Heather
Calm Journey 