These Shoes Were Made For Walking

I'm so tired. I've been walking a long time. I saw lots of things along the way, and the view was beautiful as I went. The water, the trees, the birds, the grass. I took my boys and they were inspired and pleased. We made plans to return often. While the miles added up on the way there, it seemed worth it to see what was up ahead and around the bend. The anticipation drove us forward. We were glad to work, glad to push and happy to be where we were. I took snacks and drinks, made provisions and documented every experience and sight. I didn't want to forget a thing. We took care of the trail as we walked. Kicking rocks off the road, picking up liter when we saw it, even practicing trail etiquette.

The walk back however seemed different. I was tired, hot and bothered and at times regretting my trip. The trees and flowers I passed on the way the first time seemed old and taunting this go round. The miles were being added and not subtracted and each step was a journey all in itself. Regret and dread hounded me that I had gone so far. I could not believe that I had pushed myself so far that I would have to struggle so hard to get back to my family. I couldn't believe that I had taken my kids along that way too.

The lesson learned? Don't begin a journey unless you have counted the cost of your return trip. At the end of the day it should be worth it.