I fondly remember purchasing these Red Wings boots as a young man at a shop in Hopewell, Virginia-Cavalier Square-they served me well.

Those Red Wings went with me into the woods, through seasons and weather, over ground that shaped who I was becoming. They did their job well-steady, reliable, uncomplaining- until walking years slowly gave way to other kinds of journeys.

When they no longer could carry me, I didn't throw them away.

Now, they live in my wife's garden, filled with soil and flowers and sometimes chipmunks. Doing what good things often do when they're finished – making room for something new.

They still belong in my life.

They still hold weight.

Only now, instead of miles, they hold growing things.