The steps weren’t buried, just covered enough to make you slow down. You had to pay attention. If you rushed, you’d feel it immediately.
Winter simplifies things. No noise. No notifications. No opinions flying at you from every direction. Just cold air, steady breathing, and the next step in front of you. The trail doesn’t argue with you or demand anything from you. It just asks you to be present.
I’ve always enjoyed training outside, especially in conditions like this. It quiets the mind. Out here, the constant negative noise of today’s world fades. No headlines. No pressure. No comparison. Just honest effort.
The stick in my hand is about balance. When the ground is uncertain, balance matters more than speed. Life works the same way.
Those stone steps were built one at a time…quiet, intentional work meant to last. That’s Il Il Shin to me. Be better every day by staying steady and moving forward regardless of circumstances.
