As I reflect on my life as it is at the moment, I have a difficult time trying to remember how much endless driving I did while living in the Suburbs. I really couldn't go anywhere without getting into the car. No sidewalks to walk on, no street lights to show the way, and realatively little natural beauty. Although I had to drive everywhere, I was always a savvy errand runner, planning my stops in a sequence that made sense and didn't waste time or gas. Everything was decided in advance before I left the house, and there was little, if any, spontaneity.
After moving to the city, I've found that I enjoy being able to walk most places without a mental map or a time clock. On my way to the market I can stop and get a coffee, check out the bookstore, or browse at the public library. I can visit the University campus and find out what special events are taking place. I can walk to the golf course, the tennis courts and the park. I can walk along the river, the lake, and the nature center. Granted, this is a very unique part of the city, but it is the city and it is bursting with energy. Our resident grandchildren are able to walk to their violin lessons, the sailing center and the playground, and both resident young families hitch up their "Burleys" to their bikes and enjoy the beauty of the the bike path that spans the woods, the river and the Great Lake.
Our entertainment activities are much more spontaneous and much more frequent. One's destinations do not have to be planned in advance when on foot. We may start out walking to a restaurant and decide instead to go to the theatre. We may begin a walk with nothing special in mind, and end up listening to a jazz ensamble. And, sometimes it's just a walk after dinner to get ice cream or a cup of tea. Whatever the reason, our walking has kept us healthier, happpier, much lighter on our feet, and best of all, we feel more connected to society.
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