time to find myself

I went to a little craft store today and they had paperweights/silver stones with inspirational messages on them and I saw that they were 80% of the original price. I had to get some for myself. Tonight I can honestly say I had one of the most powerful experiences of my life. The afternoon evening started out with my friend and I setting the drink stops along the trail that our running group would later run.

My friend and I then began laying the trail and along the way we sidetracked from the original plan we had. This meaning we took the wrong trail. The wrong trail actually proved to be very incredible. The trail we took ran along a rapid flowing stream and the sound of the flowing water was absolutely amazing and the trail ended at the same place we had orignally set to end.  There was just one little flaw. At the top of the hill a really cute bag was left that I got for .29 it was also full of drinks. By taking the wrong trail that particular drink stop was completely missed.

I later this same evening went hiking back up the trail to retrieve the bag and the drinks. I took with me my ipod and I put it on low volume and did not put my headphones on which is usually what I do when running alone. I had my headlamp to be a safe hiker and I had my keys. On that hike with the full moon out and my small headlight shining the way for me and my soft music playing I found a peacefulness and a stillness I rarely take the chance to feel. Engraved on those little stones I bought today are two seperate statements. One saying rest a minute and the other saying take some time. The other two say shine and discover. I am trying to let my weaknesses go by the the wayside, let my strength shine through and discover all life is ready and willing to offer me.

I took some time to express the gratitude for the energy and strength I had to return up that hill as well as for the appreciation I gained for what an incredible place I live and just for the opportunity to continue to grow through humbling experiences and for all the opportunities that can be afforded to every single one of us through striving daily to be positive and seeking to rest a minute.