No walk in the park...

Several weeks ago I decided to take a walk to a park in a new area of town. It was early evening and although I was advised to take a bus, the evening was mild and I needed the exercise. I noticed everyone on the street, especially noting the older women with their shopping bags and small dogs on leash which represented a safe neighborhood to me. At first I was curious about the colorful graffiti on the walls until it suddenly grew above my head and the smell of local garages and non-descript businesses crossed my path. At one point I thought I would turn and retrace my steps especially when I noticed that small groups of men had replaced women and leashed dogs. But I did not turn. Instead I looked up and saw green trees in the distance I thought "There's the park." and I just kept walking with a definite determination.

Several blocks later I was at a wall. It was ten feet tall of solid concrete with one small a gate that I quickly opened into a large and beautiful cemetery. I was surprised.

I became reflective as I walked through the tiny alleys and admired the miniatures residences. I was in a safe and quiet place. I was in a park. I thought to myself, everyday one should walk in a cemetery to appreciate one's short life.

It was not quite the walk in a park I had anticipated, but nonetheless...the exercise was good for me.