Walking the Journey

The human brain works better when we walk. We think more clearly and more creatively. Our memories get better. We learn things more quickly and more completely. Our concentration is stronger. Walking reduces the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other health problems.

You may know all this from your own experience, and scientists have found plenty of evidence to confirm it. Writers, poets, leaders, and philosophers throughout history have talked about how the mind benefits from a good walk. “An early-morning walk is a blessing for the whole day,” Thoreau wrote.
It may be that the human heart also works better when our legs are in motion, metaphorically, at least.

The theme of this month’s issue is “Walking the Journey,” looking at ideas around physical and spiritual journeys. The idea of faith as a journey is an ancient and powerful concept. Jesus’ path in life was almost entirely on foot. Pilgrimages, usually on foot, figure into many religions, not just Christianity. The idea of pilgrimage is so deeply rooted that some psychologists suggest it’s a Jungian archetype.

In this month’s issue, columnist Johan van Parys describes the impact of walking the Way of St. James, the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. Johan also writes a feature article about Jesus’ spiritual journey through the eyes of one of his disciples.

Fr. Bruce Lewandowski writes about soldiers learning to walk again after suffering injuries in combat—and not being afraid of falling. And in our fiction piece, Cecilia Richards writes about a walk that unexpectedly turns into a redemptive pilgrimage.

You’ll also find articles on baptism, death, and the annunciation as well as our other regular columns.

Do you like ? We hope you do. Faith is a journey. Let us accompany you. If you have thoughts about how we can make Liguorian a more meaningful part of your life, we’d like to hear from you. Please drop me an e-mail at publisher@liguori.org.

Thanks. I hope you have a nice walk.