Let's Take a Long Walk

In the late 90s / early 2000s, neo-soul was at its height; blending jazz and r&b with smooth, melodic singers who were like spoken word poets. I used to retreat to my room, immersing myself in their stories of love and loss and pure emotion. There’s Erykah Badu, Angie Stone, and Anthony Hamilton, but Jill Scott and her timeless song, A Long Walk stood out from the rest.

You're here; I'm pleased

I really dig your company

Your style, your smile, your peace mentality

Lord, have mercy on me

I was blind, now I can see

What a king's supposed to be

Baby I feel free, come on and go with me

Let's take a long walk around the park after dark

Find a spot for us to spark

Conversation, verbal elation, stimulation

Share our situations, temptations, education, relaxations

Elevations, maybe we can talk about Surah 31:18

The thing about Neo-Soul is that it resonated most deeply with grown folks, and now more than ever, I’ve come to realize the profound impact of its lyrics. It’s given me a fresh perspective on music at a time when it’s harder for me to enjoy it; sadly I’m failing to keep up with pop trends or even relate to the newer generations’ angst-filled anthems. It makes me feel like I’m still a music fan. 

“A Long Walk” is about love, being in love, and sharing moments with someone special. It perfectly encapsulates the essence of long walks amid many using it as a source of mere productivity or creative inspiration. To me, they should extend beyond that — they are precious opportunities to connect with your family and to be fully present in their company.

Our Long Walk 

This is how I know she’s my child- the sass is on level 10.

First, I have to note that our 16-month-old daughter, Addy is obsessed with dogs, and has to carry a dog leash with her everywhere she goes. So, to prepare for our own long walk, we dress her in a jacket and shoes and tuck away a spare dog leash in her stroller. 

I head out the door first with our shih-tzu mix, Yuna. My husband follows with Addy, maneuvering the stroller down our narrow stairs into the driveway. 

As we walk, we point out the trees and leaves and attempt to encourage her to sound out the words–– “TREEE,” “FLOWWERRS”. She excitedly points to the passing dogs, buses, and people, offering a brief, high-pitched “Hi” and waving to everyone, furry friends included. Witnessing her social butterfly nature and how she’s already learned her first few words is adorable and amazing. 

Nearby, we usually come across a playground, where we let Addy enjoy a few moments on the swing. Her laughter fills the air, echoing through the entire park. 

We continue, exploring the neighborhood for about 1.5 miles, immersing ourselves in nature's beauty and observing the people around us. We engage in conversation from to time, thoughts that occupy our minds, but mostly we embrace our surroundings, appreciating the constant changes that unfold before us.

While I think a long walk can be a helpful tool to get out of a productivity slump, I’m grateful for its significance beyond that; a source to embrace life and be fully present with family and loved ones. It’s an undeniably simple joy and a great gift if you embrace it.