My morning walks are frequently interrupted by long periods of procrastination. When I do get going, it will continue uninterrupted until something comes around to break the habit. A couple of years ago during the peak of covid, this was a daily habit. On those walks I would see other people walking at the same time. As you pass them by daily, you develop a strange bond of acknowledgement with these strangers. One set of people I would acknowledge daily was an older couple, both very lean and lanky. They looked like their cares of the world were done. They always walked together in rhythm and we would cross each other twice on the round of the park. There would always be a wave, a hello and a smile at each crossing. I would spend a few minutes thinking of them and how they fit so comfortably with each other..

After a good break, I started my walks again. Today, as I was walking, I saw the lady in front of me by herself. It took us both a moment to acknowledge each other, and it seemed like the gap of all these days just got filled. She looked a bit sad, and I couldn't help thinking what had happened to her better half. I, of course, couldn't stop and ask her as we had never crossed the formal introduction bridge. I wondered if she had lost her partner in this gap. It made me sad to see her there without her partner.. I moved past her quickly as my emotions welled up.

Then as I looked up, behind her was another lady walking her dog and right behind that lady was the better half of my walking buddy and a gentleman discussing the numerous Indian stores around us. Now I understood why my buddy was a bit sad...

All is well in my walking world now..