Americans find it difficult to engage in any activity for pure pleasure. We have to have

a higher aim—a purpose—for every moment of time. For example, children take classes or join clubs to increase their self-esteem, build talent, or try out a potential career. Adults attend parties to make business contacts, garden to rise【M1】______ vegetables, and mow the lawn to meet neighborhood standards. Im here to tell you about one of my guilt pleasures. It doesnt cost【M2】______ a thing, takes a little time, and brings me lots of personal【M3】______ fulfillment. Best of all, you can indulge in it for sheer enjoyment. It is walking. There is something about walking that is different from jogging. When Im jogging, Im instantly【M4】______ challenging myself to go farther or faster, sweat more, and breath【M5】______ harder. And when Im walking, Im taking time to go outside and【M6】______ put one foot in front of another while I look around, blink, and feel the sun and the wind. When I walk, I am submerged myself in life. On【M7】______ walks, I confront myself, too. Theres avoiding my recent irrational【M8】______ response to the neighbor with straying trash or the petty argument I started with my husband. While I walk, I put into perspective that【M9】______ is important to me. Artist Winslow Homer said, "The sun will not rise, or set, without my notice and my thanks." Where else can you notice the suns movements besides on a walk—an opportunity to appreciate【M10】______ joy in the world for its very existence？

【M1】