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Special Shoes

Podcast - Special Shoes . . .

Look down at your feet, right now. What do you see? Are you wearing shoes? You might be wearing slippers, flip flops, running shoes, supple leather dress shoes, or your most comfortable everyday shoes? I’m looking at a pair of brown, soft suede leather, around-town walking shoes. My go-to, most comfortable shoes.

As I was putting on my old faithful, everyday shoes to run errands a thought flashed into my mind. “When your shoes wear out you’re simply back on your feet” - right where it all started.

It’s said, “A journey of a thousand leagues begins with a single step.” That quote is attributed to Lao-tzu, the ancient Chinese philosopher who wrote the Tao Te Ching, born 604 B.C. Imagine how worn his sandals must have been?

But what about today? Your personal journey begins with a single step every day. Just how many pairs of shoes are in your closet, or under the bed? More than you think, I’m sure of it. I see you running off to count them, haha. Where will they take you today? And just what purpose do they serve? Let’s take a look.

It’s early morning, you leap out of bed, slap your hands together and say, “It’s a great day to get up and get after it.” - right? Then while fumbling in the dark for your slippers you step on a stray cat toy - ouch!

Or maybe you’re not quite so enthusiastic, one of those folks who practically fall out of bed. A padder - you like the sound of padding around the house like an ole’ bear with your paws. Either way, it’s comforting. Where do those shoes take you? To the coffee pot for an eye-opener? Maybe to the refrigerator for some juice.

Mine lead me to my computer desk, to write. I choose to start my day like you, coffee, juice, and a positive Thought for the Day.

After about an hour you start to get restless. Do you dash off to work or go for a morning walk? I’m up early - let's go for a walk, the cool fresh air will do me good.

This requires your special walking shoes. You slip them on and begin to stretch as you secure the laces. Once you’re out the door now it’s your quiet time, time to think and plan your day. How many plans have you made as you pump along with the rhythm of your heartbeat, a clear mind, and a strong body? Those shoes are priceless.

After breakfast, you hit the showers. Then carefully select your work shoes for that day. What’s today? Ah, yes, I’m presenting a seminar. So, we select our finest most supple black leather shoes with their high polish luster.

What’s this? I see the soles are a little worn. Indeed, these shoes have seen many cities around the world. They remind me of all the classes taught, the people I’ve met, and all the ideas shared, they are dependable. Mental note, “Be sure to drop them off at the local cobbler for new heels.”

It’s early evening, it sure would be nice to get a bicycle ride in. Oh yes, there are special shoes for that too. They have stiff soles and cleats. Hop on the bicycle, clip yourself in, and you’re gliding down the road. With a smooth cadence, the cleats allow you to you push with the right leg - pull with the left. Feel the wind in your face, and the exhilaration of speed. These are funny looking shoes, but they perform their job well.

How about your special vacation shoes? I feel “bully” when I strap on my hiking boots and challenge the high Sierra Mountains. The views exhilarating, clear blue sky outlined with the craggy mountain peaks. With every footfall puffs of dust rise from your boots, the peaceful sound of the buffeting winds murmur through the trees, you pause for a deep breath, the crisp aroma of the pines. Once again nature is your companion. Don’t you just love those shoes?

Whew, what a journey, back home, to those most comfortable of shoes. Your everyday, go-to shoes.

As you slide them on, remember this, “when your shoes wear out you’re simply back on your feet” - where it all starts - every day.

This is Patrick Ball, thanks for listening. See you in the next episode.

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Comments

Karl said…
I go bare foot constantly. My feet are now like fine Corinthian leather. I allow everyone on my staff to go bare foot if they so choose.
September 24, 2020 at 9:47 AM
Sally Troutman said…
When did you find that you had a fetish towards men's foot wear Patrick Ball?
September 24, 2020 at 5:30 PM
Patrick B. Ball said…
Never thought of it that way Sally. I just remember my Chiropractor (Dr. Burch in Lewiston) telling me the importance of having the correct shoes with the right support for a healthy back.
September 27, 2020 at 5:32 AM
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