My Walk

After about 200 times trekking from our apartment to the school in the snow, rain, sunshine, dark, and clouds, I have realized a few things....
I have realized how much I thoroughly enjoy that walk. I realized how grateful I am for all that I have. I realized how grateful I am that I don't have to dig through any of the eight garbage dumpsters that I pass on my way....
I find sorrow in my walk. I find the same old man digging for food every evening. I find a man lying in the frozen grass taking a nap. I find babushka's trying to carry all the items they didn't sell on the street that day. I find frowns in the people hurrying by.
But...I also find happiness in my walk home...I find so much more happiness than sorrow. I find children sliding 10 feet across ice; falling and giggling. I find grandfathers taking their granddaughters home from school every day, holding their hands and carrying their bags. I find friends walking together with their strollers. I find leaves changing colors, which all reminds me of the reality of God.

I have loved and hated this walk home and to school. I have learned from this simple, short journey each day. It took me about 100 trips to realize I could help by leaving leftovers next to the dumpsters. And it took me about 150 trips to realize that a smile really does change people. Unfortunately, it took me about 170 trips to understand that sometimes a friend is inexplicably nice to have by your side.