Little pathways

I've been meeting on Saturday mornings with my friend Mo. Today we walked to town from his home, had breakfast together in Cupcakes cafe in the Market Square, and then walked back.

One of the little paths we followed

Rather than follow the roads we decided to use the network of small pathways between the houses. Although the roads are well served with pavements, the traffic is noisy, sometimes kicks up dust, and emits fumes I prefer not to breathe into my lungs. That's why we chose the small paths.

It was a cloudy day, but dry. The paths are surrounded by greenery, there are areas of grass where people walk their dogs and childen play safe from traffic dangers, there are trees and bushes, and sometimes small bridges over rivers and streams. This all makes the walk pleasant and a source of gentle and healthy exercise.

It struck me later that the contrast between the busy roads and the little paths is much like the difference between traditional church and meeting with friends informally at home in a local coffee shop, pub or cafe. And it's like the difference between the banking system and simple exchange or barter. And it's like the difference between reading a manual with detailed instructions and learning a skill as an apprentice.

Roads, traditional churches, banks and manuals are structured, often rule-based (try driving the wrong way down a one way street) and somewhat staid. Little paths, informal church, simple exchange, and apprenticeships all work by watching, doing and exploring. They are free, open, and natural.

Long live the little pathways!

(If you liked this you might also like Journeys of heart and mind and Quote me on this.)