The Walk - When Life Switches to Red Alert

I was walking in the woods, trying to escape the heatwave—and the mental heatwave in my head. I’d just come out of a Sunday that flipped everything upside down.You know that feeling when life throws a sudden curveball, and your brain hits red alert before your heart even catches up? That was me, standing behind the altar, trying to mask the panic when I heard that our pastor, Father Mauricio, is being transferred. Again. Another change. Another goodbye.I talk a lot about slowing down, about being present. But sometimes, even a slow walk through the forest can’t stop the mental acceleration. My ADHD brain was off to the races—worrying, overthinking, preparing for worst-case scenarios.This episode of The Walk is about that moment. The one where you realize that even after years of learning, healing, and growing… it’s still hard. When life doesn’t follow your carefully crafted routine. When you're just trying to keep going—and not fall back into old burnout patterns.I also share what I’m doing differently this time:Recognizing the signs of overwhelm early.Asking for help before things spiral.Creating a simpler structure for my ministry—and my mind.Remembering my core identity: priest, author, geek.If you're navigating change, dealing with anxiety, or just trying to understand why some days your brain won't start—this episode is for you. Get full access to Father Roderick at fatherroderick.substack.com/subscribe