Keep on walking

Walking is the basic mode of human movement.  With our vast modern transport networks we can lose sight of the fact that we still rely on walking to an enormous extent.  However, the ease, speed and comfort of travelling long distances by car, train and plane has deeply impacted our experience and appreciation of the world around.  I am convinced that it is good for us when we get back on our feet and spend a decent amount of time travelling at walking pace.

In days gone by, walking used to be an integral part of many working lives. Trades and occupations of many kinds involved a level of leg work that would shock many people today if they suddenly had to keep up with the amount of walking necessary on a day to day basis.  Just to pick a few examples - farmers (no tractors), travelling entertainers and soldiers come readily to mind.

In addition, a few hundred years ago pilgrimage was a regular activity for many people, and the walking was an integral part of their religious expression. Personally, I would have many quibbles with the religious background to the whole concept of pilgrimage in those days, and especially the "industry" that developed, although now is not the time to embark on that debate.  However, I simply note the fact that the Bible is full of images of people travelling on foot, often as a major part of their lives.  As a child I was impressed by my father's Bible which showed the life and ministry of Jesus in the form of a series of maps with footprints detailing His extensive travels, which were mainly on foot.

And then, of course, walking is a major metaphor for the Christian life and experience.  We all talk about the journey of life, and it is a journey where walking pace is a much more appropriate picture than high speed trains or cars. We talk about the pressures of the fast pace of modern life, and while many seem to enjoy the ride, many of us long for the chance to slow down a bit.  The Bible refers regularly to the life of faith of the Christian as a walk.  So it is my intention to us this site to share how walking, in both the practical and metaphorical sense, is of great importance to me.  I would very much like walking to become established at the foundation of my life.