Last week, my brother and I enjoyed our traditional bike trip to Tip Top Dairy in Osakis, Minnesota. As the sun rays increased the thermometer to 93, I so appreciated the comfort provided by the wind and my water bottle. After reveling in the deliciousness of our ice cream treats, we pedaled some back streets to check out the lake before re-entering the bike path back to Alexandria.
It felt like another perfect day on the trail. Then, I heard a sound that revealed a flat back tire. I asked my brother to please keep riding toward home, and just meet me at an upcoming town with a vehicle. It meant I got to walk the trail with my bike. Seeing the fields and farms from the vantage of walking provided me a more detailed view. I saw some trees and crops and homes and buildings that never caught my eye while biking. The sway of individual tree branches could be enjoyed much longer on foot. I found myself in the moment, noticing the wind on my skin and the heat on my cheeks. I love to hike yet had not ever considered hiking the Central Lakes Biking Trail. The unplanned walk gave me pause in a way even the past months at home could not. It still felt like a perfect day on the trail.
In retrospect, I could have chosen a very different experience by focusing on the flat tire rather than the fullness of the moment surrounding me. Instead, I am grateful for embracing the beauty of the day.
In any situation, we have the power to choose where and how focus our attention. What are you resisting or allowing in the moment? Are you seeing all that can be seen? What are you missing?
