The Inside Outside Retreat Centre logo, a trail marker blaze within a circle.
Logotype for the Inside Outside Retreat Centre.

Walking the path, II

Paths are the story of humans journeying on foot. They have a beginning, a middle and an end. They point forward toward the journey’s goal but also behind to all who have traveled this same path before us, including those who created the first track.” ~Torbjørn Ekelund

 

Last time, we talked about walking.

This time?

Paths.

 

Possibly one of the most overused metaphors ever.

And with good reason:

 

As paths take us from one spot to another, they may prod us to think about direction and purpose.

 

Steep or winding paths might inspire thoughts about patience and perseverance.

 

A path disappearing around a curve or into the woods evokes exploration and discovery. Such paths invites us to:

  • To step out of our comfort zone
  • Expand our horizons
  • Embrace the unexpected.

 

The dynamic, ever-changing nature of paths calls out for adaptability and flexibility, We’re asked to:

  • open to newness
  • embrace change
  • find creative solutions.

 

Paths can offer fresh ways to think about things, valuable insights, and new questions to ask.

 

And of course, paths remind us to savour the moment, enjoy the journey.

 

All that.

 

But what really intrigues us at the Inside Outside Retreat Centre is the opportunity paths offer for contemplation and connection to nature and one another.

 

Walking a path we find moments of solitude and reflection.

 

Coming round a bend, our perspective shifts, climbing a hill or descending into a valley our focus changes.

 

A path in a natural setting helps us to connect with the beauty of the outdoors, breathe fresh air, and appreciate the wonders of the natural world.

And more.

It takes us into the heart of that world. It invites us to step out of observation and to feel ourselves as part of the environment.

To experience, what Ada Limón describes: “it isn’t just me looking. It’s the world and the trees and the grasses and the birds, looking back.”

 

Paths draw us together in space and time. They are routes we share with others, human and non-human alike. Past, present and future. That’s how a path is made.

Foot after foot, treading the same ground, time after time.

 

When we walk a path we’re part of its story.

Each new step takes us, and the path, deeper.

—-

Paths Through Time and Nature 

Sunday, June 4, 10:00 am – 2:30 pm

High Park, Toronto.

Pay What You Can

Register

 

Contact Us

winifred@insideoutsideretreatcentre.com

We are settlers on Treaty 13 Land, the traditional territories of many Indigenous Nations including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples, and home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples from across Turtle Island. We are committed to honouring the history this land bears witness to, responding to the 94 Calls to Action of the  Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, and walking lightly on the Earth. A portion of proceeds from all our offerings are sent to:  The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation and The Nii’kinaaganaa Foundation.

The Inside Outside Retreat Centre, Centre for Social Innovation (CSI), 720 Bathurst St., Toronto, ON, M5S2R4