Early morning walking reflections— Peace

This morning, as I walked, I noticed two joggers with headlights strapped to their foreheads and a sit-down biker with a little flag and light on his tricycle. Each of them had a way of saying, “I’m here, be aware of me.” One jogger came from the front, another’s footsteps came up behind me, and the lights helped me see them before they were right there beside me.

That simple awareness gave me peace. It reminded me that peace isn’t about ignoring the dark—it’s about bringing light into it. Just like those headlamps lit up their path, awareness lights up mine. Whether it’s spotting danger, noticing an opportunity, or realizing where I’ve lost focus, awareness always gives me a way back.

Last night, after Bella’s tournament win in Garland, we drove home late to West Texas. By the time we got in, it was already deep into the night. Now, early Monday morning, Bella and Barbi are still asleep, resting, and I’m out walking. I know if I don’t set my internal alarm—if I don’t keep that awareness alive—then I risk missing the time I need to get my work done. Awareness of that fact alone is what brings peace.

Peace and performance go hand in hand. When we stay aware, we can reset, refocus, and keep moving in process, not results. And when we’re in process, peace is already there, waiting.