Yesterday, I finally got out for the walk I'd been wanting. It might not have been walking meditation in the traditional sense, but at a certain point in my perambulation, every walk becomes a meditation.

Thoughts settle down, I find a rhythm of breath and stride, and am awake to what is here, now. The hawk’s cry, her perch on an impossibly high limb, another shriek and sudden flight.

Budding bushes capture my attention, knots and knarls in leaf bare trees. Because I am walking, I embrace and release each moment without hesitation. I could stop and investigate, but each step brings a new delight. And it’s cold out.

Walking up a slight incline my breath becomes deeper; I feel the heat and calm of mild exertion. I notice: this is what I am looking for, leaning towards. Always. And I wonder: why is it so hard to get myself out the door? I have never in my life regretted going for a walk. I have never wished I hadn’t set foot out the door. I have never come back from a walk feeling worse than I started.

And I have to say that’s true of every time I sit too. Which is what I’m off to do right now. Sending all beings everywhere love, peace and happiness on Valentine’s Day and every day.